free on travel crib love

Best Travel Cribs

Fact-checking standards, latest update:, what is a travel crib, what to look for in a travel crib, how to pick the best travel crib, how we chose the best travel cribs, why trust us, best travel crib overall, babybjörn travel crib, best travel crib for airplane trips, guava lotus travel crib, best travel crib for car trips, graco pack ‘n play portable playard, best travel crib with easy assembly, 4moms breeze plus, best travel bassinet with mesh canopy, primo cocoon folding travel bassinet, best lightweight infant travel bassinet, munchkin brica, best compact portable crib with bassinet, uppababy remi portable playard, best easy-to-carry travel crib, chicco alfa lite, best adjustable travel crib, nuna sena aire travel crib, best easy-open travel crib, bugaboo stardust.

Daniel Ganjian , M.D., Pediatrician, Providence Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, California.  American Academy of Pediatrics, How to Keep Your Sleeping Baby Safe: AAP Policy Explained , July 2022. American Academy of Pediatrics, Suitable Sleeping Sites: Safe at Night & Naptime , June 2022. U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Safe Sleep – Cribs and Infant Products .

Explore the Best Products for Moms and Babies

Trending on what to expect, best baby deals happening right now, how to get your registry's free welcome gift, ⚠️ you can't see this cool content because you have ad block enabled., 17 of the best baby bottle and breast milk storage solutions you can buy on amazon, best toddler water tables, best stroller fans.

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

• Travel Products
• Family Travel

The 8 Best Travel Cribs of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

We tested 19 travel cribs to find which one is the best for portability and safety.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks

Our Testing Process

• Others We Liked
• Tips for Buying

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Whether you have a family trip coming up, need something for the occasional overnight visit, or are shopping for a baby registry, a good travel crib is essential. Sometimes called playards, these foldable contraptions offer a secure place for your child to sleep or play when you're on the go.

According to neonatologist Michael H. Goodstein, MD, FAAP, they're "a safe alternative to a crib, as long as the product is consistent with the mandatory guidelines established by the CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission)." But, beyond safety considerations, not all portable cribs are created equal.

Travel cribs vary by size, weight, features, and functionality. We tested 19 models to narrow it down to the most user-friendly, portable, durable, and easy-to-clean options. (See more about our in-depth testing process below.) Our number one pick is the Maxi-Cosi Swift Play Yard, a sturdy, stain-resistant travel crib that takes less than two minutes to pack up.

Best Overall

Maxi-cosi swift play yard.

• Ease of Setup 4.8 /5
• Durability 5 /5
• Portability 4.5 /5
• Quality 5 /5

With an adjustable mattress and easy folding mechanism, this sturdy crib grows with your child and can be taken on any excursion.

It's not the lightest option we tested.

Clocking nearly perfect scores in all our tests, our top choice is the Maxi-Cosi Swift Play Yard. Even after six months of use, we loved how lightweight this portable crib is, making it super easy to set up and take down. Though the leg-folding mechanism is a little different than most models, we assembled it in less than three minutes and packed it back up in under two. It also has all the comfort and safety features we'd want in this type of product. The mattress lays flat on its own, you don't need to hook Velcro straps to keep it down, which is great for saving set-up time. The supportive yet bouncy design barely budged when we dropped a 25-pound sandbag on top, and the frame held strong too.

We're also big fans of the bassinet feature. For newborns and infants, you can detach the mattress from the bottom and raise it up for easier access to your baby. Then, when your child grows, lower it back down to prevent them from climbing out.

At 18 pounds, this travel crib is on the heavier side. However, it seems durable and long-lasting. The high-quality materials appear stain-resistant. All things considered, we think the price is right on point.

The Details: 41.5 x 33.5 x 31 inches (overall) | 33 x 11 x 12 inches (packed) | 18 pounds | 35-pound weight limit

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Best Budget

Munchkin travel bassinet.

• Ease of Setup 5 /5
• Durability 4.5 /5
• Quality 4.5 /5

This lightweight, compact sleeper is incredibly easy to set up and pack up, a perfect option for traveling with newborns.

It doesn't come with a carry bag, and the weight capacity is 15 pounds.

On a budget? Check out the Munchkin Brica Travel Pod. This on-the-go sleeper can be set up in one minute and packs back up in less than 30 seconds. At just three pounds, we were also impressed with the lightweight design. When it folds down, it's super small and doesn't take up a lot of space even though it doesn't come with a carry bag. The lightweight, compact design is undoubtedly convenient, but bear in mind the capacity is 15 pounds. In other words, you'll need something bigger once your child is about 6 months old.

The Details: 30 x 21 x 12 inches (overall) | 3 pounds | 15-pound weight limit

Best Splurge

Uppababy remi portable playard.

Buy Buy Baby

• Portability 5 /5

This durable, splurge-worthy crib is super easy to assemble and packs into a conveniently compact bundle.

It's somewhat heavy (but super sturdy), and the carry bag is sold separately.

If you're open to splurging on a high-quality travel crib, UppaBaby won't disappoint. It's incredibly easy to set up, you just pull it out of the box and snap it into place. When folding it back up, the frame wraps into the mattress to create a conveniently compact bundle. After six months of use, we found it to be a great option to even leave up as an extra home crib.

We also appreciate the safety features, including padded edges, hidden zippers, and an elevated bassinet attachment. It's also pretty light and portable. So, while the price is steep (and you'll have to buy the carry bag separately), in the end, we think it's worth the investment for its durability and overall features.

The Details: 40.5 x 28.5 x 26 inches (overall) | 28.5 x 11 x 10 inches (packed) | 22.5 pounds | 20-pound weight limit

Travel + Leisure / Tamara Staples

Best Compact

Kidco peapod plus.

• Durability 4 /5

The ultra-lightweight, compact design is easy to take on the go and folds up into its carry bag in seconds.

It's not recommended for children under 6 months and the bottom of the crib is made of fabric that can be slippery.

For something more compact, consider the KidCo PeaPod Plus. We were able to set up this sleeper and fold it back down in almost no time. The ultra-lightweight design folds effortlessly into its included bag, and the carry straps make it easy to take on the go.

The tent-like design can be used indoors or for outdoor naps in your backyard, on the beach, or on family camping trips . While it's not the most structured, it holds its shape enough to provide a safe sleeping spot for a small child. Despite the compact size, bear in mind it's designed for kiddos between 6 months and 5 years.

The Details: 46 x 34 x 22 inches (overall) | 19 x 19 x 3.5 inches (packed) | 3.5 pounds | 100-pound weight limit

TripSavvy / Jhett Thompson

Best Lightweight

Chicco lullago anywhere portable bassinet.

• Value 4.5 /5

This remarkably lightweight-yet-sturdy bassinet is easy to set up, move from room to room, and bring on the go.

The maximum weight is 20 pounds, and it doesn't come with a carrying case.

We were able to assemble and fold up the Chicco LullaGo in under a minute. This travel bassinet is remarkably lightweight yet still sturdy. After six months of use, it's holding up well and is a great option with a minimalist design. Though we wish it came with a carrying case, it's easy to move from room to room or bring on the go. We also like that all the covers are conveniently machine-washable.

Dr. Goodstein warns against using this product past the newborn stage, as the elevated platform isn't designed for larger infants. "When the babies are too old, they can fall out of it," he says. "It's just not safe."

The Details: 30 x 28 x 18 inches (overall) | 28 x 18.5 x 5.5 inches (packed) | 12 pounds | 20-pound weight limit

Best Playard

Chicco alfa lite lightweight travel playard.

This playard boasts easy setup, a sturdy design, and various safety features to keep your kiddo secure during naps or playtime.

It doesn't fold down as small as other options we tested.

The Chicco Alfa Lite can be assembled in three minutes and folded back up in less than 60 seconds. Thanks to the helpful 'push' buttons and intuitive design, you don't even need to consult the instructions for set-up and take down. Though the legs fold out with ease, the frame also feels sturdy, like it'll hold up well over time.

Designed for on-the-go sleeping or safe, secure playing, this playard has lockable side zippers and a mattress that buckles to the base. You can also unzip the side to let your child climb in and out during playtime. The mattress is a little flimsy, but other than that, we have no complaints. After six months of use, we love that this is even a good option to set up during playdates.

The Details: 43 x 29 x 25 inches (overall) | 21 x 9.5 x 9.5 inches (packed) | 13 pounds | 30-pound weight limit

Best for Car Travel

Baby joy travel crib 2-in-1 playpen.

• Portability 4 /5

This lightweight, ultra-portable crib is a breeze to set up and pack into its carrying case.

The handles are somewhat short, making it hard to avoid dragging it.

The Baby Joy Travel Crib takes a mere three minutes to set up and folds up in a flash. It folds and unfolds easily, kind of like a camp chair. Once you know where the lock button is, the frame is incredibly simple to put together. After six months of regular use, we love that this can be used inside for naps and even outside for contained playtime.

The entire thing seems high-quality, which is impressive, considering the very reasonable price tag. Weighing only 11 pounds, it's one of the lightest options we tried. While we appreciate the included case, the short handles make it hard to avoid dragging it on the ground when carrying it — for shorter folks, at least. This portable crib folds up pretty compactly but is still probably too tall for an overhead bin, which is why we recommend it for family road trips .

The Details: 45.5 x 31 x 27 inches (overall) | 23.5 x 20.5 x 7 inches (packed) | 11 pounds | 33-pound weight limit

Best Stability

4moms breeze go playard.

• Value 3.5 /5
• Quality 4 /5

Set-up is straight forward and quick.

It's on the heavier side.

With less than four minutes to set up and only two minutes to take down, this is one of the easiest travel cribs to use. Once unfolded, you simply drop in the mattress and attach it to the frame using velcro straps to keep it stable and secure. The first time we assembled this crib, we didn't even need to read the manual because it was such an intuitive process.

In addition to its ease of use, this is one of the most sturdy and high-quality of all the travel cribs we tested. The material doesn't shift around at all and the slight suspension and shocks improve safety for any kiddo. We also love that it comes with its own travel case that helps keep the crib compact and organized while on the go. For anyone looking for an entry level travel crib that's simple and sturdy, this is a high-quality and reliable option.

The Details: 43 x 30 x 29 inches (overall) | 23.2 pounds | 30-pound weight limit

Travel + Leisure / Leticia Almeida

Travel + Leisure editors selected 19 travel cribs to try firsthand. We started by timing how long it took to assemble them based on the brand's instructions, noting any hiccups they ran into along the way. After assessing the features and materials, we lifted them up and moved them around the room to see how light and portable they were once assembled.

To evaluate the sturdiness, we shook the frames and dropped a sandbag into the center to see how well they could support a small child standing up or jumping around. Finally, we timed how long it took to fold down the cribs and put them in their carrying cases, noting how heavy they were when packed up. Each model was scored for ease of setup, portability, durability, ease of cleaning, quality, and value, and those with the highest average ratings were selected for this roundup.

Other Travel Cribs We Liked

KidCo Peapod Portable Travel Bed : This tent-style sleeper quickly pops open, and the padded base is a cinch to snap on. While the fabric is somewhat thin, it's super lightweight and easy to carry, too. However, in the end, we just liked the other KidCo model better.

Baby Delight Snuggle Nest Harmony Portable Infant Lounger : We liked the small, lightweight design of this product. But since it's technically a lounger rather than a crib, it's really designed to be a safe place to set your infant down — not necessarily a place to sleep. When in doubt, check with your pediatrician before using it.

Pamo Babe Deluxe Portable Nursery Center : While this crib was incredibly easy to set up, we thought it lacked durability as it had a tendency to collapse as it grew closer to the weight limit.

Tips for Buying a Travel Crib

Put safety first.

Whether for travel or nightly sleep, safety should be a top priority when buying a crib. Per the CPSC's current guidelines , the mattress should be relatively firm to prevent rolling. And you shouldn't add extra padding or bedding until your child is at least 12 months old, as the materials can pose a suffocation risk.

"Get a travel crib that is current from a major brand," says Dr. Goodstein, "and use the mattress that's included." He adds that, aside from a sleep sack, you really don't need anything other than a mattress and a tight-fitting crib sheet.

Know the important features 

Travel cribs come with various features — some for safety and others for comfort or convenience. This may include user-friendly foldability, a carrying case, a firm mattress, padded edges, concealed zippers, or breathable mesh sides.

"Some have a bassinet feature, which is convenient for new mothers (not bending over) and small/younger newborns," says Dr. Goodstein. "With or without, they should be used properly, following the weight, age, and developmental limitations set within the product instructions and warnings."

Consider the type of trip you're taking

When browsing options, consider the type of trip you're taking and where you plan on using the crib. If you're traveling by plane , some (but not all) airlines allow you to check portable cribs for free (along with travel strollers and car seats). But if you're not checking baggage, make sure it's small enough to pass as a carry-on.

Some small travel cribs can be folded up super compactly and even tucked inside a suitcase. But larger options that come with their own carry bags will usually need to be toted around separately. If you just need something for the occasional overnight, you have more flexibility in terms of size.

The main difference between a travel crib and a regular crib is that the former is typically foldable and relatively lightweight. But as long as it has a proper mattress and sides that prevent rolling off, you can use a travel crib as a regular crib.

"The newer ones, for the most part, should be fine," says Dr. Goodstein. "If you're going to use a sheet in there, make sure it's a fitted sheet for that specific type of crib."

Travel crib mattresses are roughly 38 x 24 inches, which is the size of a mini crib mattress. Getting a fitted sheet in the proper size is crucial, as loose fabric can be dangerous for sleeping babies. "These little ones don't have good head [or hand] control — they can't brush something off of their face," explains Dr. Goodstein. "Something as light as a sheet can cause suffocation."

Some travel cribs fit into overhead compartments, but it varies by model. While it's different for each airline, the maximum dimensions for carry-ons is usually 22 x 14 x 9 inches, so be sure to measure the packed-up size before your trip.

While most airlines will check strollers and carseats for free, travel cribs are considered luggage and will be charged as such. Be sure to check with your specific airline in advance to determine what baby gear is complimentary.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Theresa Holland is a toddler mom and seasoned commerce writer specializing in travel, baby gear, and furniture. For this story, she compiled our in-house testing insights and combed through product specs to create a comprehensive roundup of today's best travel cribs. She is personally familiar with the offerings from UppaBaby, Munchkin, and Chicco.

In creating our list of best travel cribs, we also spoke to an expert in the care of newborns, neonatologist Michael H. Goodstein , MD, FAAP.

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.

Related Articles

Best Travel Cribs

The best travel cribs are super portable to make your job as carrier-of-all-the-stuff a tad easier., by jen labracio.

Traveling with babies and kids can be so rewarding, but there’s one thing you need when you get going: gear. To make things easier, you may want to have a travel stroller (or maybe your usual travel system will work just fine) and a travel car seat , but no matter how lightly you want to pack, your little one will need a safe place to rest. The best travel cribs are super portable to make your job as the baby gear schlepper a tad easier.

Babylist’s Top Picks for the Best Travel Cribs

• Best Lightweight: Babybjörn Travel Crib Light
• Best Affordable Lightweight: Chicco Alfa Lite Lightweight Travel Playard
• Best for Flying: Guava Family Lotus Travel Crib & Play Yard
• Best Affordable: Graco Pack ‘n Play Portable Playard
• Best for Toddlers: Newton Baby Travel Crib and Play Yard
• Most Versatile: UPPAbaby REMI Travel Crib & Playard
• Most Portable: Aeromoov Instant Travel Cot
• Best for Small Spaces: Bugaboo Stardust Playard
• Best for Car Travel: Maxi-Cosi Swift Playard

In This Article

How we chose the best travel cribs.

• Our Top Picks

What Is a Travel Crib?

Do you need a travel crib, what to look for in a travel crib, babylist’s picks for the best travel cribs, best lightweight travel crib.

Babybjörn Travel Crib & Organic Sheet Bundle - Dark Green

Why we love it.

Weighing in at just 13 pounds, the Babybjörn Travel Crib is one of the lightest travel cribs on the market, making it especially ideal if you’re a family who’s routinely on the go. Top features include an incredibly easy setup (it unfolds and breaks down in one motion, and there are no loose parts to worry about), breathable mesh sides and a firm but ultra-comfy mattress that parents rave about. The mattress and the fabric frame are both machine washable, so it’s easy to clean. And when the crib is folded in its carrying case, it will fit within any airline baggage compartment. Wheels up, with baby in tow!

Keep in Mind

You’ll want to stop using this travel crib around three years old or until your little one is able to climb out of it. But unlike many other travel cribs, there’s no weight limit for the Babybjörn, since the crib’s mattress rests on ground. This means you’ll get more time out of this travel crib than most.

What Babylist Parents Say

“Very happy with this travel crib – lightweight, packable, set up is incredibly easy, and it’s simple to disassemble for cleaning. The thing that set this crib apart for other similar travel-appropriate pack-and-plays for us was the thicker mattress – our 9 month old slept just as well in this travel crib as she does at home. Great product, we would highly recommend!” -BH

Additional Specs

Best Affordable Lightweight Travel Crib

Chicco Alfa Lite Lightweight Travel Playard - Dove

A lightweight travel crib is a sound investment if you’re a family who’s frequently on the go or if you plan on using it for multiple children, but many cost upwards of $300, especially after you add on accessories like sheets. Chicco’s Alfa Lite is a stellar lightweight travel crib but is about half the price of other similar options. And don’t worry—you won’t be sacrificing on features or quality. It weighs 13 pounds, is easy to open and close, folds down into a zippered carrying bag (with a large shoulder strap) and even has a zip-down side for easy access to your little one.

The Alfa Lite is Greenguard Gold Certified. Some parents mention that the mattress is on the thinner side.

“This travel playard is perfect. The design is sleek and the safely measures are advanced. The side opening zipper is buckled to the leg so no little hands can magically unzip themselves. The mattress pad also gets buckled in place. It took seconds to set up and take down. The travel playard makes your life so much easier while traveling and doesn’t take up much of any space in the car. 100/10 recommend buying!!!” -Sophia K.

Best Travel Crib for Flying

Guava Family Lotus Travel Crib & Play Yard

If you’ve ever traveled with kids, especially via plane, you know the value of having one less thing to tote around. Meet the Lotus: the travel-crib-turned-backpack that no traveling family should leave home without. This ultra-lightweight crib folds seamlessly into a compact, backpack-style carrying case, leaving your hands free to deal with the other 142 things they’ll be tasked with for attempting to leave the house with your littles in tow. (This feature comes in especially handy in airports.) We also love the unique zip-down “door” feature of the crib’s mesh side—it makes getting down on baby’s level for cuddles, feeding or play super easy, then quietly zips back up and locks into place.

Like the Babybjörn Travel Crib, the Guava’s mattress is flush to the ground, meaning there’s no weight limit usage recommendations here, either. Some parents report that the mattress is fairly thin, however.

“The Lotus crib is one of the best products we have. It is lightweight, folds and assembles in just a few snaps, and has mesh sides. The fabric comes completely off and is machine washable.” -Kristin

Best Affordable Travel Crib

Graco Pack 'n Play Portable Playard - Reign

If you’re looking for simple, sturdy travel crib that will stand the test of time but won’t break the bank, this Pack ‘n Play from Graco fits the bill. Although it’s basic, the features are anything but—there are a ton of things that you (and your little one) will love. We especially appreciate the sturdy frame, the roomy area for play and sleep and the push-button fold for quick and easy breakdown. And at around $70, this travel crib is perfect for using as an extra playard around the house and for keeping at the grandparents’ house or anywhere else you know you’ll be visiting on a regular basis.

You can’t attach any extras to this travel crib, like a bassinet or changing table. And some parents complain that the mattress is on the thin side, so that may be something to consider if you’re planning on using it for more than just the occasional weekend away. It’s also fairly heavy, so you won’t want to use it if you’re traveling by plane or anywhere else where you’ll need to carry it around frequently.

Best Travel Crib for Toddlers

Newton Baby Travel Crib and Play Yard - Grey (2023)

As your baby grows into a toddler , many parents still need the safety that the confines of a crib provide—especially while traveling. But what happens when your toddler is too big for their travel crib but too little for a bed? Enter the Newton. The mattress is about two times larger than most travel cribs, making it ideal for an older toddler who may be sized out of a smaller playard. It’s also 100 percent breathable and washable, made with the same Wovenaire technology used in the brand’s much-loved crib mattress. It’s flush to the ground, so there’s no weight limit, and it’s super comfy and GREENGAURD Gold Certified.

The playard weighs in at about 17 pounds, so while it’s not the lightest on the market, it’s still fairly easy to travel with and the weight is for a good cause. Assembly and breakdown are easy and the crib comes with a travel bag for easy storage. And it’s not just for the toddler years; there’s a bassinet insert for use from day one. Oh, and when you are ready to graduate your toddler from the travel crib, check out these great toddler travel beds .

Because of the Newton’s larger sleep space, it’s a bit bulkier than some of the other travel cribs on our list. The travel bag only has a handle, not a shoulder strap or backpack straps. And the crib is too large to store in the overhead compartment of an airplane

“I despise traditional pack n play style things. Newton’s playard is innovative and will definitely grow with a child from infancy through the preschool years! My 4.5 year old can still sleep in it comfortably with plenty of space. I really appreciate the thought that went into this product.” -Mona

Most Versatile Travel Crib

UPPAbaby REMI Travel Crib & Playard - Charlie

And speaking of multifunctional products, the Remi from UPPAbaby is the best choice if you’re looking for an all-in-one travel crib and playard to use both at home and when you’re on the go. There’s a ton of functionality built in to this smartly designed (and beautiful) playard. It’s Greenguard Gold Certified and includes a removable bassinet, a zip-down side panel, a triple layer air mesh mattress and a smooth, simple fold that takes one hand and only a few seconds. There are also lots of accessories to add on. A few of our favorites include the changing station , organizer and canopy .

The Remi is expensive, and even moreso when you start adding on accessories. It’s also fairly heavy, weighing in at about 20 pounds. This isn’t a big deal if you’re planning to use it mostly at home and for the occasional overnight trip, but if your family travels frequently and you need to bring along a place for your baby to sleep, it may not be your best option.

“Incredibly easy to set up. Our baby just started crawling and we don’t have a good play yard set up yet, so this was great to put him in a for the meantime. We purchased it instead of a Graco pack and play because of the zipper access and mattress quality. Love it!!!” -Rachel

Most Portable Travel Crib

Aeromoov Instant Travel Cot - White Sand

Pop-up tent meets travel crib in the Aeromoov. This 11-pound playard works just as well for a day at the beach or the park as it does for an overnight at grandma’s and is our top pick if you’re looking for one piece of gear you can use both indoors and out. The origami-style fold takes about two seconds (literally), and once it’s folded down, the whole thing slips into a bag and is less than five inches wide. It’s easy to stash for travel or throw over your shoulder and carry if you need to bring it along for an outdoor adventure. (There are also lots of useful accessories available like a sunshade and a mosquito net.) Another feature we love: there are two levels, one upper level bassinet-style for newborns up to about two months and a the main lower level for older babies and toddlers.

If you’re using the crib indoors and your little one moves around a lot, the fabric makes a “swishing” sound that’s a bit loud.

Best Travel Cribs for Small Spaces

Bugaboo Stardust Playard - Grey Melange

Simple, streamlined and seamless. The Bugaboo Stardust is one of the smaller travel crib + playards on our list, but it packs a big punch. Unlike most travel cribs that open from the center of the base and feature fold-out legs, the standout feature here is the accordion-style fold. It makes it quick and easy to open and close by either pushing or pulling each side. You can even fold the Stardust with the mattress still inside—a pretty big deal and a huge time-saving (and sanity-saving) feature.

The Stardust weighs about 14 pounds and has a compact design that’s ideal for spaces that can’t handle a giant playard, either at home or when you’re on the go. There’s also a bassinet attachment for younger babies, a really comfortable mattress and all-around mesh panels.

The maximum weight limit for the Stardust is similar to the other travel cribs on our list, but because of smaller size, your little one may outgrow it in height sooner than they would with other playards. It’s also on the pricier side.

“I’m a first time mom and it feels like I have tried all the baby products out there. We were in the market for a new pack n’ play so I recently purchased this for my 5.5 month old and it is a game changer when it comes to portability and ease. I’ve found other products like this are bulky and difficult to store, but the Stardust is slender, lightweight and unfolds in one second. (No exaggeration.) I would highly recommend this product for travel, sleeping or playtime - in fact, we’re looking forward to traveling with it over the holidays!” -AlexT

Best Travel Crib for Car Travel

Maxi-Cosi Swift Play Yard - Classic Graphite

Weighing in at just over 18 pounds, the Maxi-Cosi Swift is too heavy and bulky for regular air travel. But it’s also quite a bit lighter than many of the standard playards on the market, so we still wanted to consider it for our best-of list. That’s why think it’s an ideal choice if you’re a family who travels frequently by car. While you won’t want to lug it around on the regular, it’s easy enough to load and unload from any vehicle. And the setup and breakdown? It’s an actual dream, especially during travel when you have 14 other things to do after you set up your little one’s sleep space. Parents rave about how easy it is—it actually folds in one step using only one hand. Other pros to love include a super sturdy design, a comfortable mattress and a bassinet attachment that comes included at no extra cost.

As noted above, the Swift weighs about 18 pounds, so it’s not the lightest travel crib of the bunch, but isn’t the heaviest, either.

“We have tried a handful of play yards and the difficulty of putting them down and back up is what always frustrates us. The swift is truly like no other. It takes less than 5 seconds to set it up and less than five seconds to break it down. Not only is it so easy but it’s also so aesthetically pleasing!!” -Momof3

• We analyzed results from Babylist’s Best Baby Products survey, which polled 6,000 Babylist users and asked them to share the baby products they love the most and why.
• We utilized insight from the Babylist editorial team, including Gear Editor Jen LaBracio, an expert in the baby space for over six years and a mom of two who has written hundreds of baby gear guides and personally researched and tested hundreds of baby products, including many travel cribs.
• We reviewed customer reviews from hundreds of real Babylist parents.

A travel crib is a portable crib you can use for sleep or play when you’re away from home with your baby or toddler. While you can use most playards for the same purpose, travel cribs are specifically designed with travel in mind; they’re lighter, more compact and easier to set up and break down than your average playard. Travel cribs generally accommodate newborns to toddlers about three years old.

Whether or not you need a travel crib depends on how often you travel and where you’re heading on your next adventure.

Many hotels and even some rental homes may supply a travel crib. Using a baby gear rental company is an option, too. But if you’re staying somewhere that doesn’t supply a crib, you don’t want to rent or you simply prefer to be in control of what your baby sleeps in while you’re away, investing in a travel crib is probably a good idea.

Besides being a place to rest, travel cribs are also a safe place for your little one to play, especially when you’re away from your usual surroundings and potentially dealing with a non- babyproofed space. (We’re looking at you, sharp table corners and exposed electrical sockets.) You can even use some travel cribs as a napping spot on days spent at the beach or park.

Travel cribs can be expensive. A travel crib is also something you’ll use for years, especially if your family travels frequently. Think through these features before you buy.

• Weight. This is one of the most important features to look for in a travel crib. A lightweight travel crib is easier to lift and carry than a heavier option. To figure out if this is important to you or not, think through how often you’ll be traveling and which modes of transport you generally use. Do you travel infrequently and often by car? Plan to use your travel crib only for a trip to the grandparents’ once a year? Then your travel crib’s weight may not be hugely important to you. Are you planning several trips by plane where you’ll need to bring your travel crib along? Then the weight of the travel crib you choose should jump to the top of your priority list.
• Size and portability. Similar to weight, the size and overall portability of your travel crib are important features, but also dependent on how often you travel and how you get wherever you’re going. If you’re a frequent flyer, you’ll want a travel crib that’s not only lightweight but portable, too. Look for a compact crib and something that has either backpack straps or another easy way to carry it through someplace like an airport or train station. If not, however, a slightly larger travel crib or one that doesn’t come with built-in carry straps may be just fine.
• Longevity. How long you’ll be able to use your travel crib is a big factor to consider while shopping. One thing to consider is the crib’s design. Although not outwardly labeled this way, there are two basic types of travel cribs: cribs with raised mattresses and cribs where the mattress lies flush with the floor. Most travel cribs with raised mattresses have weight maximums. This means that if you have a larger, heavier child, they may exceed the travel crib’s weight long before you feel comfortable letting them sleep in a regular bed or even a toddler travel bed while you’re away from home. Travel cribs where the mattress sits directly on the floor, however, often do not have weight maximums. While your little one still may outgrow the crib by height, these types of travel cribs often can be used for a longer period of time.
• Ease of breakdown and setup. Travel with babies and toddlers is no easy feat. Look for a travel crib that sets up and breaks down quickly and easily so you can spend less time grappling with gear and more time enjoying your vacation.
• Materials and breathability. Look for a travel crib with a breathable mattress, breathable mesh sides and one that’s made from soft, comfortable materials. If it’s important to you, you may prefer a travel crib that’s GREENGUARD Gold Certified or uses organic materials. Removable and machine washable sides and covers are also nice-to-have features in case of a mess.
• Budget. Travel cribs can get pricey, especially if you want one that’s extremely lightweight and portable. Thinking through how often you’ll be traveling and what types of features will make the most sense to you can help you determine your budget.

Jen LaBracio

Senior gear editor.

Jen LaBracio is Babylist’s Senior Gear Editor, a role that perfectly combines her love of all things baby gear with her love of (obsessive) research. When she’s not testing out a new high chair or pushing the latest stroller model around her neighborhood, she likes to run, spin, listen to podcasts, read and spend time at the beach. In her past life, she worked for over a decade in children’s publishing. She lives outside of Chicago with her husband and their two boys, Will and Ben.

• Product Reviews
• Sleep & Nursery Product Reviews

The Best Travel Cribs, Tested by Babies on the Go

In a nutshell:

Based on product testing, expert interviews and survey feedback from over 300 members of The Bump community, we chose the Bugaboo Stardust Travel Crib as the overall best as it’s super-lightweight and features a one-second unfold.

Heading out on a trip or vacation with your baby or toddler? Chances are, there isn’t going to be a safe, sturdy crib waiting and available at your destination. And if that’s the case, you’re going to need a portable travel crib. “It’s important to have a specific safe place for your child to sleep when traveling so that you can keep them safe and sound,” explains Bridget Bowling , a certified pediatric sleep consultant in Cleveland, Ohio. “Without a travel crib, it’s easy for families to fall into unsafe sleep habits,” like letting baby sleep in bed with you. Thankfully, there are a ton of travel crib options to choose from.

Aside from safety, the most important factors to consider when choosing a travel crib are portability, size and weight. Of course, practically every travel crib bills itself as compact, lightweight and easy to set up and break down. To find out which ones actually lived up to the promise, we scrutinized the options, picked out the best of the bunch and had real parents put them to the test. Keep reading for our picks of the best travel cribs on the market, including this year’s Best of The Bump winner, as well as expert advice on what to look for in a travel crib.

How We Tested the Travel Cribs

For more than 10 years, The Bump has acknowledged the best baby products on the market through our award series. The Bump editors did extensive research and created a shortlist of top-rated travel cribs. From there we took the following steps to determine which product was the overall best:

• The Bump editors combed through user reviews, leveraging our familiarity with leading baby brands and relying on our own experiences as parents. We only considered options that meet CPSC safety standards and had an average four-star rating.
• We interviewed a certified pediatric sleep consultant to get the lowdown on must-have features and how to use a travel crib safely.
• In May 2023 we surveyed 300 members of The Bump community. We asked this sample of new parents to rate the travel cribs they’ve used with their own babies and to comment on their overall experience. We evaluated this data and used it to inform our product choices.
• We enlisted parents of babies and toddlers to thoroughly test the leading options on the market. They used the portable cribs with their own kids for multiple naps and nights, and carefully assessed each travel crib for ease of use, portability, effectiveness, features and design and value for money.

We paired this rigorous testing with our own expertise and insights to bestow the prestigious Best of The Bump award to the overall best travel crib. But we didn’t stop there. Using the testing evaluations, we identified other standout options that are particularly good for specific needs, whether you want a slim or lightweight option, one that’s ideal for newborns or a travel crib that works particularly well as a playard. All this, to help ensure you find exactly the right product for your family. Editorial integrity is at the heart of everything we publish. Read about how The Bump develops and reviews all articles , including product reviews.

The Best Travel Cribs

Overall best travel crib.

• Adjustable height
• Uses standard crib sheets
• Comes with Velcro travel bag
• Higher price
• Weight capacity may not suit older toddlers

One of the major selling points of this travel crib is a one-second unfold, which may sound like quite a bold claim! But “it lived up to its promise,” according to our product tester, who added, “the Bugaboo Stardust was impressively user-friendly. Its sleek, folded design made storage easy, especially in tight spaces like car trunks.”

The lightning-fast setup comes courtesy of an all-in-one design, including a built-in mattress, which means you have zero extra parts to fiddle with. Folding it back up takes a mere three seconds, so packing at the end of your trip is just as easy. And at 17 pounds, “it felt lighter than many of the other models I've tried,” our product tester reported.

Despite the slim profile and minimal poundage, the Bugaboo Stardust is a sturdy space for sleep and play. “Its robust sides and base seemed well-equipped to handle the spirited energy of a 9-month-old,” our tester said. You'll get maximum longevity too, thanks to a bassinet feature for newborns and an adjustable height setting that keeps your cutie contained as they grow. Compared to other travel cribs she’d tried, our tester said “this one stood out in terms of comfort and design.”

Dimensions (open): 38.8" (L) x 25" (W) x 33.5" (H) | Dimensions (folded): 25.6" (L) x 5.5" (W) x 33.5" (H) | Weight: 17.2 lbs. | Weight capacity (crib): 33 lbs. | Weight capacity (bassinet): 19.8 lbs

Our product tester says: “It made travel with a 9-month-old remarkably hassle-free.”

Best travel crib for newborns

• Spacious design
• GREENGUARD Gold certified
• Suitable for newborns, older babies and toddlers
• On the heavier side

The UPPAbaby Remi Playard was designed with newborns in mind. Not only does it boast an easy-to-insert mesh bassinet to keep the tiniest sleepers safe and secure, but its materials are also GREENGUARD Gold certified for low chemical emissions to provide better air quality for baby. The organic, temperature-regulated mattress is machine washable too, making easy work out of cleaning spit-up, blow-outs or leaks.

There are plenty of newborn-friendly features to love here, but the greatest gift for new parents is a good night’s sleep—and this travel crib delivers. “There’s no difference in [ baby’s ] sleep using the travel crib vs. his usual crib or bassinet,” our product tester reported. She gave the Remi a 5 out of 5 score for effectiveness, adding, “we tried it as a bassinet and as a crib and [ my baby ] sleeps great using both.”

The Remi earned additional kudos from our tester (as well as additional 5 out of 5 scores for ease of use and portability) when it came to set up. “The Remi is brilliant,” she said. “Not only is it super easy to use, but the instructions are very easy to follow. When traveling, the last thing you need is the headache of having to set up a complicated crib to put a tired and fussy baby down. The Remi is so easy to set up, you can do it in less than a minute and be able to focus on other things.”

That’s not to say that the Remi is just for infants—it's also sturdy enough to withstand naps, sleep and playtime with older babies and toddlers. In fact, our product tester believes she’ll keep using it for some time to come. “I can see it being very useful as he gets older and I can set him in with his toys to keep him contained because there is plenty of space for toys and books.”

Dimensions (open): 40.5" (L) x 26" (W) x 28.5" (H) | Dimensions (folded): 11" (L) x 10" (W) x 28.5" (H) | Weight: 20 lbs. | Weight capacity (bassinet): 20 lbs.

Our product tester says: “The Remi is very well thought out. I love the side zipper to let kids in and out, and the set up is foolproof.”

Best travel crib for easy setup

• Easy to unfold and setup
• Lightweight
• Comes with carry bag
• No bassinet
• Not as roomy as other options

Traveling with baby in tow can be exhausting—so the last thing you need once you reach your destination is a travel crib that’s a painstaking puzzle to assemble. Not with the Baby Bjorn crib! Setup is a breeze. “It folds in and out so easily, I could almost do it with one hand,” our tester said, giving the Travel Crib Light 5 out of 5 scores for ease of use, effectiveness and portability. When you're ready to head home, just collapse it and tuck it into the handy travel bag. “I could fold it down and transport it easily for playdates and sleepovers at the grandparents,” our product tester reported. It won’t break your back, either: Clocking in at just 13 pounds, this sturdy yet featherweight travel crib may weigh less than baby!

The firm-but-cushioned mattress will keep your little one comfortable while they snooze, and the crib can easily double as a play zone for babies. That said, the light weight and simple design comes with a few minor costs: The crib's small size isn't ideal for toddler playtime, and there's no bassinet feature for newborns.

Still, if you're looking for a travel crib that'll get you from point A to point B with minimal headache, it’s a top choice. “It's worth the price for a hassle-free experience and its convenient travel size,” our product tester said. “It's not fussy at all and very straightforward.”

Dimensions (open): 44" (L) x 32" (W) x 24" (H) | Dimensions (folded): 23.5" (L) x 5.5" (W) x 19" (H) | Weight: 13 lbs. | Weight capacity: N/A

Our product tester says: “It's not fussy at all and very straightforward.”

Our community says:

“/[It's] easy to set up and use.” – Katherine*, The Bump survey respondent

Best travel crib for flying

• Can be worn as a backpack
• Carry-on approved
• Features a side zipper
• No bassinet feature
• Thin mattress
• Base is low to the ground

We can't promise the Guava Family Lotus Travel Crib will make flying with baby easy. But it'll definitely make things easier , thanks to its lightweight, compact fold-down size, included travel bag that can be worn as a backpack(!) and the fact that you can take it onto the plane as carry-on luggage.

"I can’t lift very heavy things, and I find myself picking this up with no problem,” our tester reported, giving the Lotus 5 out of 5 for ease of use and portability. “The shape is great and very flat.” And she’s not kidding: This highly portable travel crib folds down to just half its full size.

Once you reach your destination, the easy-to-set-up crib doubles as a play space to keep your cutie (and their toys) contained. A convenient side-zipper feature makes it easy for older babies and toddlers to climb out on their own (once you unzip it), which means less lifting for you; it’s also a handy feature for shorter parents and caregivers who struggle to reach over the sides of a portable crib. The Lotus earned another 5 out of 5 score for features and design from our tester, who added, “It's spacious but not bulky.”

While this crib option is lightweight and streamlined, the sturdy aluminum frame keeps active toddlers secure, and because it sits on the floor, there's no upper weight limit. You can use it until your tot is big enough to climb out, wherever your travels take you.

Dimensions (open): 45" (L) x 31.5" (W) x 25.5" (H) | Dimensions (folded): 24" (L) x 12" (W) x 8" (H) | Weight: 15 lbs. | Weight capacity: N/A

Our product tester says: “It's ridiculously easy to set up, super small and you can wear it as a backpack.”

“/[It’s] small and easy to pack up.” – Nicole*, The Bump survey respondent

“I like the style and how compact it gets when folded.” – Susan, The Bump survey respondent

“I like that it sits on the floor—feels sturdier, plus there's no weight limit as a result of it.” Lisa*, The Bump survey respondent

Best small travel crib

• Small and lightweight
• Convenient for newborns
• Budget-friendly
• Low weight capacity
• Too small for older babies

If you're looking for a pint-sized sleeping space for camping trips or naps in the park, the Munchkin Brica Fold ‘n Go Baby Travel Pod may be the option for you. Like the name implies, it's more like a portable cocoon than a full-on crib, making it ideal for newborns and younger babies who aren't yet pushing up or trying to roll over .

The pod, which lays flat on the ground, can be quickly set up on a picnic blanket or beach towel with the touch of a button. “It took maybe one full minute to set it up and break it down,” our product tester reported, giving the Brica Fold ‘n Go a 5 out of 5 score for ease of use. It's also ultra lightweight (just 3 pounds!). “This was especially helpful since I haven't yet gained my full strength back postpartum,” she added. She also appreciated the mesh sides that offer breathability (and let you take a peek in at baby).

The Brica Fold ‘n Go also earned a 5 out of 5 for effectiveness—our tester reported that her child “settled well after just a minute and slept regularly.” In short, it's a great, easy option for newborn snoozes. The Brica Fold ‘n Go is basically a travel bassinet, offering a great option for little nappers who will move on to a bigger travel crib once they’re able to start pushing up.

Dimensions (open): 30" (L) x 21.3" (W) x 11.8" (H) | Dimensions (folded): 16.9" (L) x 5" (W) x 20.7" (H) | Weight: 3 lbs. | Weight capacity: 15 lbs.

Our product tester says: “It's a great item to keep in the car and to take to parks, beaches or camping.”

Best lightweight travel crib

• Small, lightweight, and easy to carry
• Add-on sunshade and mosquito net
• Adjustable levels for newborns through toddlers
• Narrow, on the small side for toddlers
• Some users wish the travel crib bag was sturdier

This lightweight travel crib—and seriously, we mean under 11 pounds lightweight—was a big hit with our product tester. “This was extremely light and very easy to carry both assembled and folded up,” she told us, giving the Aeromoov Instant Travel Crib 5 out of 5 scores across a broad range of categories, including portability, effectiveness and value for money. it's a breeze to tote along practically anywhere. And since it folds down to less than five inches wide in the included carrying bag, it's super easy to store.

Our product tester said she’d “especially recommend it to someone who travels or does a lot of outdoor trips," since the crib can be bundled with a UV 50+ sunshade and a mosquito net to keep your cutie comfortable in the elements. In fact, the mosquito netting was something our tester particularly singled out for praise: “I’ve never actually seen a playard with a mosquito net, so I really did like that. I took my first son camping at 5 months and struggled with bugs and leaves falling into his playard.”

If you’re worried that a lightweight travel crib won’t hold up to an active baby, don’t. Our tester told us, “The structure of the playard was very sturdy and I didn’t feel like it would give in at all if my son was to fall over or try and pull up inside.” Setup is quick and convenient, and you'll appreciate the adjustable height too. This is one light crib that does the work of a heavyweight champ!

Dimensions (open): 36.2" (L) x 24.8" (W) x 51" (H) | Dimensions (folded): 28.3" (L) x 4.7" (W) x 4.7" (H) | Weight: 11 lbs. | Weight capacity (bassinet): 13 lbs. | Weight capacity (crib): N/A

Our product tester says: “I'd especially recommend it to someone who travels or does a lot of outdoor trips.”

Best pack and play travel crib

• Full-size bassinet
• Lots of space to play
• Can be wheeled from room to room
• Larger than some other travel cribs

Spacious, sturdy and easy to transport from room to room (thanks, bottom wheels), Graco's Pack ‘n Play On The Go Playard shines not only as a place for naps, but also as a space to keep your little contained while they're awake. “There's enough room for [ my daughter ] and her toys,” our product tester told us. “I felt safe and secure with the durability of the playard and how happy she was to play and do tummy time.”

The On The Go Playard isn’t as compact as some of the other models we tried—it’s definitely geared towards giving your child a dedicated playspace in addition to a sleep environment. But our tester, who gave the travel crib 5 out of 5 for portability and ease of use, found it simple to fold down, transport and set back up. “One of my favorite things [ about it ] was how easy it is for a busy mom," she told us. “It took me maybe five minutes to set up. And it's light enough for me to carry along with my baby.”

It's a great value for the money too—whether you need a toddler travel crib or something that can grow with baby, you’ll love the age-adaptable features like a full-size bassinet and soft toy bar. “The height was perfect for picking her up and setting her down, and there's lots of room for her to grow,” our tester told us. There's even a side pocket for storing essentials like diapers and wipes, and the 35-inch height limit easily keeps even the most curious toddlers in one spot.

Dimensions (open): 39.5" (L) x 28.3" (W) x 131" (H) | Dimensions (folded): 10.5" (L) x 10.5" (W) x 29" (H) | Weight: 21.4 lbs. | Weight capacity (bassinet): 15 lbs. | Weight capacity (crib): N/A

Our product tester says: “I loved this playard for the ease, durability and style!”

Best all-in-one travel crib

• Compact carry case
• Toy mobile included
• Easy to assemble and break down
• Some users worried the carrying case handles weren't sturdy enough

The Delta Children babyGap Deluxe Play Yard has everything you need to serve as your little one's home base away from home, including a bassinet, changing table, snap-on hanging storage and a removable toy arm to engage your newborn's visual development. At the same time, it has a quick, compact fold that makes it easy to pack and tote when you're on the go. “The playard has so many additional features,” our product tester told us, rating the babyGap deluxe 5 out of 5 for value. “And is much less expensive than [ similar products ] !”

“I was genuinely surprised at how lightweight this playard was in comparison to another Pack-n-Play that I have,” our product tester told us, also giving the babyGap Deluxe 5 out of 5 for portability and ease of use. “It easily broke down and slid back into the carrying case.” She also added that she loved the fact that set-up instructions were printed right on the side of the bassinet. “It made it so easy and convenient to put together,” she told us. “Especially as someone who loses paper directions!” (We hear you!)

Our tester loved the wheels built into one side of the travel crib—and it really shouldn’t come as a surprise at this point that she rated the babyGap Deluxe 5 out of 5 for features and design. “This is so important, as when I'm working in my kitchen, I can easily push the playard closer and into my vantage point while I'm cooking.”

The mesh-paneled bassinet was also a winner. “It's excellent quality. It's firm and fits securely into the bassinet insert,” our tester said. The mobile on top is pretty mesmerizing too, so you can eke out a few more uninterrupted minutes as you get ready to hit the road. “My infant stared at it for 25 minutes,” she said. Needless to say, she loved this feature!

Dimensions (open): 37.4" (L) x 27.8" (W) x 40.2" (H) | Dimensions (folded): 12" (L) x 9.5" (W) x 30.1" (H) | Weight: 28.6 lbs. | Weight capacity (crib): 30 lbs. | Weight capacity (changing table): 25 lbs. | Weight capacity (bassinet): 15 lbs. | Weight capacity (crib): N/A

Our product tester says: “It’s comfortable and so easily transportable for my two young babies.”

*Note: Some names have been changed due to privacy requests.

Travel Cribs Comparison Chart

What to look for when shopping for travel cribs.

Just like with a standard crib, safety comes first. Your child’s travel crib should have mesh side panels to promote healthy airflow and reduce the risk of suffocation while sleeping, Bowling says. In keeping with recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics , the mattress should be firm enough that it doesn’t conform to the shape of your child’s head (again, to reduce suffocation risk), and there shouldn’t be any visible gaps between the mattress and the side of the crib, Bowling adds.

Any travel crib being sold in the US today must meet federal safety standards, which were updated in 2022 . If you’re planning to use an older model, be sure that it meets Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) safety standards. The CPSC website can also tell you if a travel crib has been recalled , which is especially important if you’re snagging a hand-me-down from another family.

After safety, you’ll want to think about the features that’ll make your life easier. While traveling with baby is never really convenient , having a travel crib that works for your needs will mean a little less stress. “You’ll want to decide what’s important to you and what sorts of trips you’ll be taking and toting your travel crib on,” Bowling says. For instance, frequent fliers will probably want to prioritize compactness and minimal weight, while a little extra bulk won’t be much of an issue for those who take the occasional road trip to visit friends and family.

Finally, consider whether the travel crib will grow with your child. Compact models designed for air travel tend to be smaller, which is great for convenience when you have an infant. But you might need something a little more spacious if you’re hoping to use the same product until your older toddler transitions to sleeping in a bed. “Typically children sleep in travel cribs as long as they sleep in cribs, which I recommend to be until at least age 3,” Bowling says.

Differences Between Travel Cribs and Pack and Plays

Travel cribs and pack and plays (also known as playards ) can keep babies and toddlers safe, comfortable and contained while they sleep or play (as long as the playard is designated for overnight sleep). Both are designed to be portable and can generally be folded down and packed up in a compact bag or case, making them a good alternative to a crib when you’re on the go.

The main difference? Many products billed as travel cribs tend to be smaller, lighter and easier to transport than a pack and play. They’re a little more convenient for tucking into the car or bringing along to the airport, explains Bowling. But ultimately, both will get the crib stand-in job done.

About the writer:

Marygrace Taylor is a freelance health and parenting writer based in Philadelphia, who’s written dozens of product roundups, health features and personal essays for The Bump. She’s also a highly experienced car seat and travel crib user, thanks to her 5-year-old.

Interested in becoming a product tester for The Bump? Head here to apply.

Plus, more from The Bump:

The Best Pack and Plays and Playards, Tested by Active Children

The Best Baby Travel Essentials for Your Next Family Trip

Tips to Get Baby to Sleep While on the Go

Bridget Bowling is a certified Family Sleep Institute pediatric sleep consultant in Cleveland, Ohio, and the founder of Little Snoozers

Healthy Children (AAP), How To Keep Your Sleeping Baby Safe: AAP Policy Explained , September 2023

US Consumer Product Safety Commission, Non-Full-Size Baby Cribs Business Guidance

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Next on Your Reading List

Best Travel Cribs for 2024 – Our Reviews of the Safest and Most Portable Models

In a Hurry?

We recommend the 4moms Breeze Plus Portable Playard or Guava Lotus Travel Crib as the best travel cribs that are extremely high quality and cost-effective.

As a mom who loves traveling with my little one, a portable crib that’s easy to set up and take down is an absolute must-have. After testing out several popular travel cribs on the market, I’ve discovered the key features to look for and compiled my top picks to make your buying decision easier.

A travel crib allows baby to sleep comfortably and safely whether you’re visiting relatives, staying in a hotel, or camping in the great outdoors .

In this guide, I’ll go over what makes travel cribs so useful for families on the go and review the top-rated options based on my hands-on experience assembling, using, and traveling with them.

Product Comparison

Reviews of the top 10 travel cribs: testing the products.

Before diving into our recommendations, it’s essential to understand that I’ve personally put these travel cribs to the test.

I know how crucial it is to have a reliable and convenient travel crib. So, I’ve tested these products rigorously to ensure they meet the highest standards of comfort, safety, and functionality for both you and your baby.

Now, let’s delve into the world of travel cribs and find the one that perfectly suits your needs:

Best Overall Travel Crib

4moms breeze plus portable playard.

Weight: 28.46 Pounds

Size: 43 x 30 x 29 inches

Recommended Age: Newborn, Infant, Toddler

Maximum Weight Recommendation : 55 Pounds

A portable playard that’s easy to set up, durable and feature packed is a must-have for moms who travel frequently with toddlers. The 4moms Breeze Plus has been a total game-changer for our family. Its “one push open, one pull close” functionality makes it so simple to set up, even with my wiggly toddler in one arm. I love that it folds up into a compact carrying case, fitting easily in our car trunk alongside the rest of our travel gear.

We used the bassinet a ton during the newborn stage, especially for overnight trips to grandma’s house. Now that my daughter is a toddler, we appreciate the roomy playard space, which gives her plenty of room to play and move around. The flip changer has also come in handy for quick diaper changes on the go.

Compared to other playards like the Graco, this one is definitely pricier but worth it for the easy one-handed setup alone. I also like how sturdy it feels compared to the Chicco LullaGo bassinet, which seems quite flimsy. The Bugaboo Stardust is similarly easy to pop open, but it doesn’t have the flip changer or removable bassinet like the 4moms.

• One-handed setup
• Removable bassinet and flip changer
• Stable and roomy playard
• Carrying case included
• Quite expensive

Most Portable Travel Crib

Babybjorn travel crib light.

Weight: 13 Pounds

Size: 44 x 24 x 32 inches

Maximum Weight Recommendation: 33 Pounds

The BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light has been an essential for overseas trips and visits to grandma’s cottage. At only 13 pounds, it’s one of the lightest and most portable options out there. I love how quick and easy it is to set up – just unfold the legs and you’re good to go in seconds. This comes in handy when I’m juggling a cranky toddler.

The mesh fabric sides provide great ventilation and give me peace of mind that I can easily check on my daughter while she’s sleeping. I do wish it came with a fitted sheet, as adding that extra piece can be annoying when I’m trying to set up quickly. The sleeping space is adequate but can feel a bit snug if my daughter moves around a lot. And it’s not ideal for nursing a newborn to sleep as there’s no side panel that opens.

Compared to the Guava Lotus, this one packs up smaller and weighs less, making it better for airplane travel. But the Lotus offers more space for a toddler to play while awake. I prefer the BabyBjorn’s airy mesh sides over the solid panels of the Maxi-Cosi Swift when it comes to breathability.

• Very lightweight and portable design
• Easy 15-second setup
• Mesh sides for visibility
• No fitted sheet included
• Sleeping space can feel small
• Not ideal for nursing

Easiest To Set Up Travel Crib

Bugaboo stardust playard.

Weight: 17 Pounds

Size: 25 x 38.8 x 33.5 inches

Recommended Age: Newborn, Infant

Bugaboo’s innovative Stardust Playard has been a lifesaver for impromptu toddler sleepovers at grandma’s apartment or sleepaway weekends at our family cabin. True to its promise, it pops open with just a one-second unfold . The adjustable height mattress is great for my aging back since I don’t have to bend down as far to lay my daughter down.

I like that it folds up with the mattress inside to become ultra compact. This is perfect for tossing in the trunk for weekend road trips where space is limited. The mattress and fitted sheet it comes with feel nicer quality than my friend’s Graco Pack’ N Play mattress. The fabric is soft but still durable enough to withstand my rambunctious toddler.

My only gripe is that setup is a bit trickier with just one hand since you have to unclip the sides before popping it open. The Chicco LullaGo sets up quicker when I’m holding my wiggly toddler. And it doesn’t have the naptime and nighttime versatility of the 4moms with its removable bassinet and flip changer. But for a basic and portable playard, it checks all our boxes.

• Ultra quick one-second setup
• Folds with mattress inside for compact storage
• Higher quality mattress and sheet
• Adjustable mattress height
• Slightly tricky one-handed setup
• Lacks extra features like changer and removable bassinet

Best Budget Travel Crib

Graco pack ‘n play on the go playard.

Weight: 21.4 Pounds

Size: 39.5 x 28.25 x 29 inches

Recommended Age: Infant

Maximum Weight Recommendation: 30 Pounds

My friend is using the Graco Pack ‘n Play On The Go playard , which has been a wallet-friendly lifesaver for their family. While it doesn’t have all the bells and whistles of pricier models like the 4moms, it gets the job done for quick weekend getaways and overnight trips to grandma’s house.

She loves that the bassinet folds with the playard, making setup even easier when her toddler is eager to be let out of her carseat. The included toy bar has also been a great way to keep the little one entertained while she is packing up her things. Her husband appreciates how light and compact it folds up with the carrying bag.

That said, the Graco’s mattress is thin and flimsy compared to the premium mattress on the Newton Travel Crib. And the fabric feels cheaper than my BabyBjorn Travel Crib. I do wish the Graco had mesh sides for better visibility and fold up smaller like the Guava Lotus. But for parents looking for an affordable, no-frills playard for travel, the Graco does the trick!

• Budget-friendly price
• Folds with bassinet attached
• Carrying bag and toy bar included
• Lightweight
• Mattress is thin and flimsy
• Cheaper fabric
• No mesh sides
• Bulkier fold

Best Lightweight Travel Crib

Chicco lullago anywhere portable bassinet.

Weight: 12 Pounds

Size: 30 x 18 x 28 inches

Recommended Age: Newborn

Maximum Weight Recommendation: 20 Pounds

During my baby’s newborn days, the Chicco LullaGo Anywhere bassinet was a must for overnight trips to grandma’s and weekend getaways. At only 12 pounds, it’s one of the lightest bassinets out there, making it easy for my husband or I to carry while juggling all our other newborn gear. The included carrying bag was great for tossing in the trunk alongside our luggage.

Set up takes mere seconds with the snap-on legs. I like that the mattress has a firm, flat surface as recommended for safe newborn sleep. The mattress quality feels much better than the super thin, flimsy bassinet insert that came with my friend’s Graco Pack ‘n Play.

However, the sleeping space is quite small and wasn’t practical once my baby became more active. And it doesn’t offer the versatile playard space of the 4moms Breeze.

Overall, the Chicco LullaGo is an excellent choice for travel with a newborn. But for longer-term versatility, I’d go with the 4moms Breeze Plus with both bassinet and playard options.

• Extremely portable at 12 lbs
• Quick snap-on leg setup
• High-quality firm mattress
• Carrying bag included
• Sleeping space is small
• Not practical once baby is bigger
• No playard option

Best Travel Crib for Twins

Baby trend lil’ snooze deluxe iii for twins.

Weight: 40.95 Pounds

Size: 35.5 x 28 x 41.5 inches

My cousin, who is a super mom of twins, absolutely loves the Baby Trend Lil’ Snooze Deluxe for all their fun family outings. The separate rocker bassinets have been perfect for keeping her twins happy in the car and on planes. She likes that each has its own toys, music, and vibration—it really helps distract them when their patience wears thin.

The large playard space has plenty of room for growing twins to play and nap comfortably. And they love listening to the nature sounds before bedtime. The deluxe organizer is great for storing diapers, wipes, and extra clothes on the go.

Compared to the Joovy Room2, I wish the sleeping space was bigger, as I could see her twins starting to feel cramped. It’s also very heavy and bulkier to fold than the Guava Lotus. Still, for parents of twins, the dual features make travel and sleepovers much smoother. I don’t know what they would do without it!

• Dual rocker bassinets with music, toys, and vibration
• Ample playard space for twins
• Convenient organizer for travel
• Portable for car trips
• Heavy and bulky
• Sleeping space could be bigger

Best Travel Crib for Airplane

Guava lotus travel crib.

Weight: 15 Pounds

Size: 45.5 x 31.5 x 25.5 inches

Maximum Weight Recommendation: No limit (mattress supported by floor)

If you are a traveler like me, you should know that the Guava Lotus Travel Crib has been my trusty companion on cross-country plane trips, busy family vacations, and weekends at the in-laws’ house. The genius 3D folding design makes it compact enough to fit in an overhead bin as a carry-on item. Setup and takedown is so simple, I can do it easily with one hand while holding my squirmy toddler in the other arm.

I absolutely love the side door panel—it’s been a game changer for calming my daughter to sleep while traveling and maintaining bonding through the night. The thick mattress is also comfier than any other travel crib mattress we’ve tried. The quality feels closer to a real crib mattress than the thinner, flimsier ones often included in cheaper playards.

The Newton does offer a bit more interior space for playtime. And the Bugaboo Stardust sets up quicker in one easy motion. But for families focused on air travel and portability, the well-designed Lotus is truly in a league of its own. I wouldn’t consider traveling without it.

• Fits airplane overhead bins
• One-handed setup in seconds
• Side door for easy access
• Thick, quality mattress
• Interior space smaller than Newton
• Slightly slower setup than Bugaboo

Best Travel Crib for Car Travel

Maxi-cosi swift lightweight portable playard.

Weight: 18 Pounds

Size: 41 x 33 x 31 inches

Maximum Weight Recommendation: 35 Pounds

I love the stylish, compact design of the Maxi-Cosi Swift for overnight trips and visits to grandma’s house. The two-stage mattress is a really unique feature—I used it on the higher bassinet setting for my newborn, and now my toddler has plenty of room with it unzipped to the larger playard size.

The one-step fold is awesome when I’m packing up a wiggly toddler in a hurry. It folds up so smooth and compact. I also appreciate that it comes with a carrying case, unlike some competitors like the BabyBjorn Travel Crib. The fabric and mesh sides seem very breathable and airy.

My main gripe is that the mattress is quite thin and flimsy—almost like a yoga mat! I wish it had the super plush mattress that comes with the Newton. And setup takes a tad longer than the ultra-quick Bugaboo Stardust. While the Maxi-Cosi Swift is slightly heavier than some competing options, it has proven to be an extremely sturdy, convenient, and stylish playard for car travel with our family.

• Two-stage adjustable mattress
• Smooth one-step fold
• Stylish, compact design fits in the trunk of car
• Mattress is very thin
• Slightly slower setup

Most Comfortable Travel Crib

Newton baby travel crib and play yard.

Size: 51 x 34.5 x 28.5 inches

This Newton Baby Travel Crib has been an absolute dream for our cross-country road trips and busy family vacations thanks to its massive interior space. With nearly 10 square feet of play area, my tall toddler has plenty of room to play and move around even after being confined in her car seat.

I’m also obsessed with the innovative Wovenaire mesh mattress—not only is it perfectly breathable, but you can wash the whole thing! This gives me peace of mind, knowing it’s truly clean for my little one. I also love that I can easily spot clean the mattress pad after accidents or spit up. The thick cushioning provides ample comfort and support.

My husband did struggle a bit with setup compared to the foolproof Bugaboo Stardust. And it lacks the versatile bassinet and changing station features of the 4moms Breeze. But for families focused on maximizing play space for an active toddler, the Newton is hands-down the winner. My daughter would live in it full time if she could!

• Huge 10 sq ft play space
• Innovative breathable + washable mattress
• Thick cushioned mattress pad
• Easily spot cleaned
• Slightly trickier setup
• Lacks bassinet and changer

Best Travel Crib for Tall Babies

Joovy room2 large portable playpen.

Weight: 29.6 Pounds

Size: 39.75 x 39.75 x 31 inches

Most moms have struggled to find a playpen that provides enough space for their toddler to stretch out comfortably—until discovering the Joovy Room2 . With nearly 10 square feet of space, it’s roomier than any other playpen we’ve tried. This crib is designed in a way that prevents tall toddlers from climbing out of it.

I love that the mesh windows provide a 360-degree view so I can easily keep an eye on my busy bee while getting things done around the house. The padded mattress and fitted sheet seem very durable yet comfy enough for naps and overnight sleep. And the travel bag makes it easy to stash in my trunk for weekends at grandma’s.

Compared to the Guava Lotus, I do wish it had a side door for easy access when my toddler is sleeping. It’s also quite heavy and bulky when folded. But its expansive interior can’t be beaten for tall toddlers who need extra room to play and rest comfortably. If space is your top priority, the Joovy Room2 is the way to go.

• Nearly 10 sq ft of space
• 360-degree visibility
• Durable yet padded mattress
• No side door access
• Heavy and bulky when folded

Why Use a Travel Crib?

Portability.

The number one reason to use a travel crib is portability. Standard cribs are cumbersome to move from room to room, let alone take on a plane or in a car.

Travel cribs are designed to fold up into a compact shape with a carrying bag for easy transport. This allows the baby to sleep in a familiar environment no matter where your travels take you.

Safety is my top concern when it comes to my baby’s sleep space. Travel cribs offer secure, enclosed sides to prevent falls and keep the baby from climbing out.

Many also have mesh panels for maximum breathability. The best travel cribs meet current safety standards and feature sturdy but collapsible frames.

Convenience

Between naps, diaper changes, and feedings, it’s so convenient to have a portable sleep space for a baby wherever I need it. Travel cribs set up in minutes in any room or outdoor area.

Some even have features like mobiles, sound machines, and bassinets to help baby sleep soundly. The ability to provide consistent sleep for my little one while we’re on the go makes travel cribs well worth it.

Types of Travel Cribs

Not all travel cribs are created equal. Understanding the different types available can help you choose the one that best suits your needs.

1. Portable Playard: Versatility Meets Comfort

• Spacious for active babies.
• Doubles as a playpen during the day.
• Offers a secure sleeping environment.
• Can be heavier and bulkier.

These traditional rectangular playard-style cribs are perfect for babies who love their space. It provides ample room for play and sleep, making it a versatile choice for various situations.

2. Bassinet Travel Crib: Perfect for Newborns

• Cozy and secure for newborns.
• Often includes features like a changing table.
• Compact and lightweight.
• Suitable for a limited age range, usually up to 3-4 months old.

Bassinet travel cribs cater to the needs of newborns and infants. They offer a snug sleeping environment and often come with convenient extras like changing tables.

3. Pop-Up Travel Crib: Lightweight and Convenient

• Incredibly lightweight.
• Lightweight metal frames simply pop open.
• Ideal for short trips.
• Limited space for active babies.
• Less durable than other options.

Pop-up travel cribs are designed for parents on the move. They are a breeze to set up and are ideal for quick getaways or when you need a crib in a pinch.

Key Features to Look for in a Travel Crib

Based on using a wide range of travel cribs with my daughter, here are the key features I recommend looking for:

Weight and Foldability

Since you’ll be moving the crib often, seek out lighter weight models (under 20 lbs) that fold into a compact shape. Look for a crib with a carrying case that makes transporting through airports and in cars manageable.

Sturdy yet Collapsible Frame

You want something that sets up and folds down easily but has a frame that doesn’t shake or collapse while in use. Metal tubing that clicks securely into place is ideal for stability.

Mesh Sides for Ventilation

Mesh sides allow maximum airflow so baby stays comfortable in warm climates or overly air-conditioned rooms. They also give parents better visibility.

Mattress Quality and Fit

A padded mattress with a snug fit is key for safety and your baby’s comfort. Waterproof and machine-washable mattress covers are a major plus for inevitable messes and blowouts on the go.

Easy Assembly and Disassembly

When traveling with a baby, easy assembly in under 5 minutes is a must. Some cribs even allow you to unfold in mere seconds! The crib should fold back up compactly with minimal effort. Look for simple push button or latch mechanisms.

Extra Tips for Using a Travel Crib

• Always Secure the Mattress Properly To prevent dangerous gaps, make sure the mattress is properly secured in place every time you set up. Follow the manufacturer's instructions closely.
• Use the Carry Bag for Transportation and Storage When not in use, keep the travel crib in its carrying case to prevent damage. This will make it much easier to transport as well.
• Keep It Clean Wipe down the crib and wash all removable parts like the mattress cover regularly. Cleanliness is especially important when using it in hotels or on multiple trips.

Before You Buy – My Closing Guidance

I hope this buying guide covers all the key factors to consider when selecting the best travel crib for your family’s needs.

My top picks offer great portability, safety, convenience, and features to make travel with your little one stress-free.

Just remember a quality travel crib can open up so many more travel opportunities while providing consistent sleep for the baby.

Let me know if you have any other questions – happy travels!

Frequently Asked Questions

What age is best for starting to use a travel crib.

Most travel cribs are suitable starting at birth as long as your doctor approves. However, some parents prefer bigger cribs for newborns and start travel crib use around 3-6 months when baby is more mobile.

Are travel cribs safe for overnight sleep?

Yes, as long as you always follow the safety guidelines like securing the mattress properly. Travel cribs that meet current safety standards are designed for both daytime napping and overnight sleep.

Can I also use a travel crib at home?

Absolutely! Many parents use travel cribs as their main crib to move around the house. They work great as a lightweight option you can move from room to room based on your needs.

Are travel cribs okay for airline travel?

Most airlines allow travel cribs as long as they meet carry-on size requirements . Some may even let you gate check the crib for free. Be sure to contact your airline to understand their specific policies.

How long can a child use a travel crib?

Many travel cribs have weight limits of 30-50 pounds and are advertised to use up to 3-4 years old. However, kids develop at different rates, so transition your child once he/she is climbing out or reaches the manufacturer guidelines.

Do I need a special mattress for a travel crib?

Travel cribs come with a mattress specifically designed to fit that model. You should use the manufacturer’s mattress for a secure fit. Using a different mattress could create dangerous gaps in the crib.

• Share on Facebook
• Share on Twitter

Why You Should Never Drink Water on Planes

How to Make the Most of Flight Delays

What Not to Pack in Your Carry-On Suitcase

10 Summer Getaways for Every Kind of Traveler

Zeen social icons.

I have read and agree to the terms and conditions

Session expired

Please log in again. The login page will open in a new tab. After logging in you can close it and return to this page.

The 7 Best Travel Cribs of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Pass on the family tradition of wanderlust

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

TripSavvy / Jhett Thompson

A secure and comfortable travel crib is an essential accessory for parents who want to travel with their little ones without restriction. Sleepovers with friends and family, local road trips, and even international adventures—the world is your oyster with the right travel crib. Some can be used as a permanent sleeping place for your baby or toddler, while others adapt throughout the first stages of their life from bassinet to cot or playpen. Things to consider include how long you want to use the crib, what you want it for (and, therefore, whether lightness or size is the greater priority), and how much you’re willing to spend. 

To help you find the travel crib best suited to your requirements, we tested 19 of the most popular options in the TripSavvy lab. Each one was scored for ease of setup, portability, quality, durability, ease of cleaning, and overall value.

Final Verdict

How we tested, other travel cribs we tested.

• What to Look For

Why Trust TripSavvy

Best overall, maxi-cosi swift play yard.

• Ease of Setup 4.8 /5
• Durability 5 /5
• Portability 4.5 /5
• Quality 5 /5

Attractive and well made

User friendly

Multi-stage extends usable life

On the heavy side

The Maxi-Cosi Swift was a clear winner for us due to its ingenious design that combines three baby essentials—bassinet, cot, and playpen—in one high-quality product. The mattress unzips to fit the newborn bassinet, then zips together again to create an extra thick, comfy mattress for the toddler cot and playpen. This versatility means you can use the travel crib day and night through all stages of your little one’s growth from birth up until approximately 3.5 years—saving you plenty of money in the long run. 

The manufacturer’s description claims that the crib takes one second to fold or unfold; however, our tester timed assembly at three minutes and disassembly at less than two. We did find it incredibly easy to set up, earning the crib a near-perfect score for this element of the testing process. At 15.4 pounds, it isn’t the lightest cot on this list and is probably not the most convenient choice for air travel. However, we love that its full size and sturdy construction mean it could double as your permanent crib. 

We also fell for its beautiful design and high-quality fabric—in fact, our tester called it the most stylish pack-n-play they’d ever seen. We felt it was durable and likely to last a long time, with a convenient carry bag that makes it ideal for taking with you on your next road trip or staying at Grandma’s house.

Dimensions: 41.7 x 33.9 x 29.9 inches | Weight: 15.4 pounds | Maximum Weight Recommendation: 33 pounds

Best Budget

Munchkin travel bassinet.

• Ease of Setup 5 /5
• Durability 4.5 /5
• Quality 4.5 /5

Low-maintenance care

Easy to pack

Allows plenty of ventilation

Relatively limited window of utility

Available online for a fraction of the price of our overall winner, the Munchkin Brica Fold N’ Go Travel Bassinet is the perfect fit for those on a budget. It’s also a very different product, intended for occasional use only during the newborn stage. Munchkin recommends stopping using the bassinet when your baby reaches three months, 15 pounds, or can push up on their hands and knees—whichever comes first. Nevertheless, we found it almost unbelievably easy to set up, with assembly taking one minute and disassembly taking less than 30 seconds. 

With side walls constructed of breathable fabric and mesh panels for maximum airflow, the bassinet is also incredibly lightweight (less than 3 pounds). Its tubular steel frame is held in place by a four-point Safe-T-Lock system but folds flat for effortless transport. We felt it would be ideal for air travel—although we wished it came with a carry bag to help keep it clean. We thought it was relatively sturdy and easy to spot-clean, though the removable mattress pad comes with a machine-washable sheet.

Dimensions: 30 x 21.25 x 11.75 inches | Weight: Under 3 pounds | Maximum Weight Recommendation: 15 pounds

KidCo Peapod Travel Bed

• Durability 4 /5
• Portability 5 /5

Fast, auto-setup

Suitable for 6 months to 3 years

Solid defense against the elements

Material feels a bit thin

If you’re looking to spend under $100 on a product that still guarantees good quality and an extended lifespan, we recommend the KidCo PeaPod Travel Bed. It weighs less than 3 pounds and is incredibly lightweight and easy to carry using convenient shoulder straps. Once opened, the tent-like travel bed pops up on its own. We found that, including the time taken to attach the removable sleeping pad, it took less than two minutes to assemble and disassemble, and we felt that it would also be a great fit for outdoor uses such as baby's first camping trip and the beach. 

The tent crib features a large zippered panel for easy access and walls made of lightweight mesh. These are great for maximum airflow and also double as an insect screen. The material is coated for UV protection, while anchor straps help to secure the tent against breezes (or active occupants!). We felt it would hold up well to the toddler years and be easy to spot-clean when necessary. Choose yours in colors ranging from Midnight to Cranberry or Tangerine.

Dimensions: 46 x 18 x 28 inches | Weight: 2.45 pounds | Maximum Weight Recommendation: 3 years

Best for Playtime

Chicco alfa lite lightweight travel playard.

• Value 4.5 /5

Quick, straightforward setup

Smart features

The mattress could be a bit thicker

For a travel crib that doubles as an on-the-go play yard, we love the Chicco Alfa Lite. It assembles in just three minutes with a snap-open motion that locks the legs in place and takes less than a minute to disassemble. We found both steps so intuitive that the instructions were unnecessary. The zip-open side panel was a particular highlight for us, allowing the gentle placement of younger babies and the freedom to come and go for older children. Best of all, the zipper is lockable from the outside to prevent wandering at night. 

The full-size mattress creates ample space for playtime and is made extra secure by buckling underneath the cot to eliminate any risk of suffocation. If you need to move the cot around, we found it easy to do so with side handles that provide a good grip. Both the materials and the structure felt solid, and the crib survived our drop test undamaged. When folded back down into its zippered carry bag, we found it pretty light, too. Finally, the GREENGUARD Gold Certified materials are removable for machine washing.

Dimensions: 43 x 29 x 25 inches | Weight: 13 pounds | Maximum Weight Recommendation: 30 pounds

Best 2-in-1

Baby joy travel crib 2-in-1 playpen.

• Portability 4 /5

Smart design with age-appropriate features

Easy care instructions

Not particularly easy to carry

Those searching for a travel crib that can act as a generously sized play area will appreciate the Baby Joy Travel Crib 2-in-1 Playpen. We timed setup and takedown at approximately three minutes each, with most of that time used to attach the mattress’s Velcro straps. The actual cot is incredibly easy to unfold and lock into place. It’s designed for babies from birth to 3 years, with breathable mesh walls offering excellent visibility from across the room. A zippered side door provides easy access for crawling and toddling children. 

We particularly liked how stable this crib is. With aluminum tubes reinforcing each corner, it felt rock solid even when we dropped a 25-pound sandbag into it and threw it around. We found it hard to tip over, even for an adult. Materials are high quality, while the mattress cover and crib fabrics can all be removed and washed as needed. The only downside was that the crib lacked portability. We felt an over-the-shoulder strap would have been more useful than the short carry handles included and that it was too wide for convenient air travel. 

Dimensions: 45.5 x 31 x 27 inches | Weight: 11 pounds | Maximum Weight Recommendation: 33 pounds

Best Splurge

Uppababy remi portable playard.

Buy Buy Baby

Doubles as a main crib

Stood up to durability tests perfectly

Plenty of "keep cool" design details

The heaviest option on this list

The UPPABaby Remi Portable Playard retails for roughly seven times the price of our budget pick; however, its excellent quality and intuitive design make it a worthwhile investment for frequent travelers or those who plan to use it as a primary sleeping space. It’s intended for babies up to 18 months old and comes with a zip-on bassinet attachment that allows easy bedside access to your newborn. Setting up the crib frame takes a matter of seconds and can be completed with one hand. 

We did find that figuring out the bassinet attachment took us several minutes—however, once learned, this process would be much shorter. The crib also features a zip-open panel for easy access, mesh walls for clear views and optimum ventilation, and a triple-layer mesh mattress for ultimate breathability. We found it very sturdy even when moved around and subjected to our sandbag tests. The quality of the materials is top-notch. It is relatively heavy (20 pounds)—however, a good quality carry bag with handles on the top and bottom makes transportation easy.

Dimensions: 40.5 x 28.5 x 26 inches | Weight: 20 pounds | Maximum Weight Recommendation: 20 pounds

Best Bassinet

Chicco lullago anywhere portable bassinet.

Transports like a dream, open or closed

Easy to maintain

A relatively short window for use

We love the Chicco LullaGo Anywhere Portable Bassinet for its high-quality design, which stood up well to our durability tests. It features a firm, flat sleep surface with mesh side panels for maximum visibility and ventilation, with metal legs that snap into place and a convenient shade canopy. It took us less than a minute to set it up and the same amount of time to fold it flat and fit it into its low-profile carry bag. At just 12 pounds, it’s wonderfully light—so much so that you can easily move it from one area of the house to another to keep an eye on baby during naptime.

Other thoughtful features include a mesh storage pocket for keeping essentials handy and a waterproof mattress with a fitted sheet. Best of all (during a stage when accidents happen often), all fabrics zip off for machine washing. For added peace of mind, the bassinet is GREENGUARD Gold Certified, which means it’s been independently tested for low chemical emissions to ensure your little one is breathing the cleanest air possible.

Dimensions: 30 x 28 x 18 inches | Weight: 12 pounds | Maximum Weight Recommendation: 20 pounds

With an impressive 4.86 out of 5 average rating, the Maxi-Cosi Swift Play Yard came in as our top pick. It features a three-in-one concept that takes your child just about anywhere from birth through approximately 3.5 years of age, and it comes with a carrying bag. Another excellent choice is the Munchkin Brica Travel Bassinet , which prioritizes value for money and ultralight portability.

First, we timed how long it took to assemble the crib and evaluated how easy the setup process was. Where relevant, we checked how simple it was to adjust it to its different stages (from bassinet to cot, for example). We assessed whether the mattress would fit a standard crib sheet or required a special size; then, we moved the crib across the room while fully assembled to see how easy it was to do so and whether all the parts remained securely in place. We also examined each feature and shook the frame to determine its sturdiness. 

Next, we placed a sandbag in the crib to replicate a baby or toddler (depending on the weight the product was certified for). We checked how the added weight affected the crib’s stability, then dropped the sandbag from 6 inches to simulate a toddler jumping up and down. Finally, we timed how long it took to disassemble the travel cot. Once packed away, we tested how easy it was to carry the crib before dropping it from waist height to test its durability further.

Each product was scored from 1 to 5 for ease of setup, portability, quality, durability, ease of cleaning, and value.

Chicco Dash Instant Setup Playard : This was a solid crib with high-quality materials—however, we found it so difficult to attach the mattress's Velcro straps that we gave up, and it's too bulky and heavy for easy travel. 

Graco My View Travel Crib With Stages : Compact and well-made, we liked that this crib was quick to assemble. It lost points due to its relatively small size, and the bassinet section doesn't fit in the carry bag.

Pamo Babe Deluxe Portable Nursery Center : This crib initially impressed us by offering a bassinet mode, a travel crib/play yard mode, and a changing table. However, it started to collapse during testing, which made us question its security. 

4moms Breeze GO Playard : We assembled this crib without instructions and liked its sturdiness and simple mattress design. However, we felt the price was high for relatively few bells and whistles. 

Dream On Me Nest Portable Play Yard With Carry Bag And Shoulder Strap : Although four separate testers tried, we could not successfully assemble this crib, which we found to be frustrating and useless. 

What to Look For in a Travel Crib

Weight and dimensions.

Travel cribs generally come in two styles. "Full-size" cribs that last through to the toddler years often double as a play yard, and smaller bassinets are meant exclusively for newborns. When choosing which one to purchase, consider your needs and whether the extended lifespan of a larger crib might make the trade-off of it being a little less portable worth it. The best option for you depends on your child's needs and how you plan on traveling—cribs for air travel will need to be much lighter than those packed in the car. 

How much you can expect to pay for a travel crib depends on the style and brand you go for. For example, our category winners range in price from just under $50 to nearly seven times that much—but what you get for your money differs considerably, too (one’s a foldable bassinet, the other’s a bassinet, crib, and play yard that could be used permanently). When deciding how much to spend, consider what you can afford and the long-term savings of purchasing a product that can be used throughout your baby’s early life, from newborn to toddler. 

Other Features

Other features to look out for range from the bassinet and changing table attachments to zippered side panels that provide easy access to the crib when you want it to double as a play yard. Any parent knows the value of baby equipment that’s easy to clean, so look for wipe-down surfaces and removable, machine-washable fabrics. Setup shouldn’t take more than a couple of minutes, and if it’s possible to do it one-handed, so much the better. Finally, the best cribs fold down for easy over-the-shoulder or backpack-style carrying, keeping your hands free for everything else. 

You should always consult the manufacturer’s guidelines before cleaning your travel crib since best practices differ from one model to the next. However, most can be spot-cleaned with warm water and a soft cloth, while the best feature fabrics can be removed and machine-washed when necessary. Many come with waterproof mattresses that can also be wiped clean. If yours doesn’t, after-market mattress protectors are often available, although you should always consult an expert before adding anything to your baby’s sleeping environment.

Some travel cribs fold flat and are small enough to pack in your suitcase. Others are compact enough to count as carry-on luggage and can be stowed in an overhead compartment. Often, even if your travel crib is substantially bigger, you can take it as checked luggage. Many airlines allow you to take a travel crib as an additional piece of checked luggage for free. However, rules vary, so check specific airline regulations for flying with children before deciding whether to take your crib with you.

Some parents choose to invest in a pack-n-play-style travel crib as their child’s permanent sleeping place. Otherwise, having a travel crib as a backup is worth it if you travel regularly and don’t want the hassle of always having to check whether your hotel or vacation rental can provide a cot (or if you simply want the peace of mind of knowing the cot’s history and quality). Many parents also purchase one to keep at a place their child regularly sleeps—a grandparent or shared custodian’s house, for example, or even in another room of their own home.

While some travel cribs can double as a pack-n-play, the main difference is that travel cribs are typically lighter and more compact when stored to facilitate portability when you most need it, such as embarking on your infant's first flight . Pack-n-plays are generally portable, just not to the same extent as these specialized models.

Jessica Macdonald is TripSavvy’s Africa travel expert and a regular contributor to family travel articles. A mom of two who’s always up for the next adventure (from road-tripping around South Africa’s national parks with an 18-month-old to hiking up Scottish mountains with a 6-week-old), she has traveled extensively with her kids and personally tested many different brands of travel cribs.

The 9 Best Camping Cots of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 10 Best Inflatable Stand-Up Paddleboards of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 9 Best Travel Pillows of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 8 Best Beach Wagons of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 8 Best Hammocks of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 7 Best Travel Car Seats of 2024

The 7 Best Roof Cargo Boxes of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 8 Best Travel Camera Cases and Backpacks of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 12 Best Carry-On Luggage of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 9 Best Beach Chairs of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 9 Best Car Phone Mounts of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 11 Best Carry-on Backpacks of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 9 Best Travel Toiletry Bags of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 9 Best Kayak Roof Racks of 2024

The 11 Best Hardside Luggage Bags of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 8 Best Beach Canopies of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Top Travel Cribs for Globe-Trotting Tots

Update: Some offers mentioned below are no longer available. View the current offers here .

There are many moving parts for families to consider when it comes to the logistics of travel, from the right stroller (or double stroller ), whether or not to take your own car seat, which luggage to use , etc. With that in mind, the idea of adding another large item to your checked luggage — like a travel crib — can be off-putting. (But, don't forget that you can at least lighten the load and skip baggage claim and have your checked bags delivered to your destination.)

While nearly any sizable hotel (and many small ones, too) and most rental houses and apartments often have some Pack 'n Plays or cribs for guest use, you can't always count on a crib at a hotel . So, bringing along your own travel crib often makes sense, especially when it comes to having a safe, comfortable and portable place to keep your baby contained. This is especially true if you are traveling somewhere that doesn't have a healthy baby gear rental market.

During a recent trip to Cuba — where island-wide shortages on virtually everything naturally extend to baby accessories, even at hotels — I was so relieved to have paid the extra baggage fee to bring along our BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light. Although there were always family members around offering to hold my baby during the day, I was glad I didn't have to build a pillow fortress around her when it was time to sleep at night.

Read on for our top picks on the best travel cribs that tick all the boxes by being lightweight, easy to bring along in a car or plane and — best of all — simple to set up.

BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light

Designed as a handy portable sleeping solution for newborns through kids up to 3-years-old, the BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light couldn't be more convenient to set up. I've even managed to set this crib up in total darkness when arriving late to a shared hotel room when I didn't want to disturb everyone else. You simply pull out the four legs from their folded position in the frame, position the crib to standing, pop the mattress down and voilà — it's bedtime for baby.

The mattress is several inches thick and nice and firm. Since it's supported on the floor, there's no weight limit to what it can hold. The whole thing packs down to flat into the handy carrying bag, tipping the scales at just 13 total pounds. Because the legs come out at a tent-like supportive angle, the crib is also surprisingly stable. Even kids that like to pull up on the sides probably can't topple this one over.

Guava Lotus Everywhere Travel Crib

Also weighing in at 13 pounds, this travel crib by Guava is another traveling-parent favorite. It's quite similar to the BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light in that the mattress is supported by the floor and the legs come out at an angle for excellent stability. The side-zipper door can be left open to allow your child to come in and out during supervised play time.

The side door is also a handy way to access baby if you happen to be, say, breastfeeding in a tent (raises hand!) or otherwise sleeping on the floor beside your baby. You can crawl right inside and lay your head next to your little one to comfort them. The Lotus Everywhere folds up into a convenient backpack, which you can take on an airplane as a carry-on, or otherwise haul around on your back on the go.

Graco Pack 'n Play Jetsetter Playard

This is another travel crib that packs down into a convenient backpack so you can easily tote it along with you on a flight or road trip. The Graco Pack 'n Play Jetsetter Playard is a bit heftier than the other two options, weighing in at just over 17 pounds. But there are extra features to this crib, too, including a removable bassinet with a canopy (the latter is stored on the outside of the backpack when the crib is packed away) and a diaper changing pad that you can choose to take with you or leave at home.

The bassinet has a soothing, built-in vibration feature that might help newborns sleep more soundly on the road (key word: might ). And while setup isn't quite as quick as with the BabyBjorn, this crib feels more like a proper Pack 'n Play and has wheels and feet that fold down to help keep it compact. To break it down, you simply push the buttons on the side of the top rails and fold it back into the backpack.

Bottom Line

Any of these cribs could be a sanity saver on your next family vacation. Do you take along a travel crib on vacations or simply rely on hotel equipment or a makeshift pillow fort? We'd love to hear about your experiences.

For more TPG news delivered each morning to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter here: https://thepointsguy.com/mailing-list/

The 4 Best Travel Cribs

The Best Travel Cribs

Which travel crib is the best for your baby? After researching over 25 options, we bought more than 8 portable cribs for testing. We conducted side-by-side testing of the travel sleep spaces for ease of use, portability, quality, comfort, and more. After months of side-by-side testing, we learned details to help you find the right option for your little one and your goals. Continue reading to learn more about travel baby cribs and what stands out.

Are you headed on travel or need other nursery items ? Other on-the-go gear can be valuable and help you stay organized. Consider the best diaper bag , a top-ranked diapers , our favorite portable high chairs , a table booster seat , or one of the best night lights for kids that's small enough to take along. Need on-the-go activity? A favorite jumper can keep little ones busy when you reach your destination.

Top 8 Travel Cribs - Test Results

Best overall travel crib, babybjorn travel crib light.

• Ease of Use 9.0
• Portability 8.0
• Comfort 7.0
• Quality 8.0
• EcoHealth 10.0

The price for this option is high compared to most of the competition. While this might make the Bjorn a no-go for tighter budgets, we think it's an excellent choice if your budget allows it. The Baby Joy Travel Crib 2-1 Playpen is a similarly styled and shaped travel crib that might be a good fit if your budget is smaller or you only need it infrequently. The BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light is a quality option that feels sturdy using high-quality materials.

Read more: BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light review

Cool Side Open Crib

Lotus travel crib.

• Ease of Use 7.0
• Quality 7.0

While this option isn't as high quality as the BabyBjorn Travel Crib , it does come close and is just as comfortable for your baby sporting a wallet-friendly price. If a budget-friendlier price and straightforward hands-free bag (woohoo!) are priorities for you, then the Lotus should make your short list of considerations. Often, the Lotus can still sport a price tag that isn't best for the tightest budget; if this describes your situation, the Baby Joy Travel Crib 2-1 Playpen has a similar shape and design and could be a good stand-in substitute.

Read more: Lotus Travel Crib review

Best Portable Crib on a Budget

Baby joy travel crib 2-1 playpen.

• Ease of Use 8.0
• Comfort 5.0
• Quality 6.0
• EcoHealth 1.0

This crib may have potential eco-health concerns as we aren't sure about the exact materials and can't find information about the contents on the product or on the Internet. If eco-health or comfort are your main goals, and your budget can stretch, both the BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light and the Lotus are better and more transparent in their materials. The pad isn't as comfortable as some competitors as the foam pad compresses easily, and little ones are hitting the plastic board quickly. However, despite these imperfections, we think this option is similar to higher quality, more expensive choices and will give your little one their own sleep space no matter where the road takes you for a price most families can afford.

Read more: Baby Joy Travel Crib 2-1 Playpen review

Good Longterm Value

Graco pack 'n play on the go.

• Ease of Use 6.0
• Portability 4.0
• Comfort 6.0

This play yard potentially uses flame retardants (they don't say, and we couldn't find out). It is also heavier and larger than most top competitors, making it a no-go if your space is limited or you have difficulty lifting heavy things. Despite this, it is a good choice for families with a tight budget who long for a multi-use option with above-average performance. If you don't need a multi-purpose product but still want to save some money, the Baby Joy Travel Crib 2-1 Playpen is a good choice for occasional use. It may not be suitable for a play yard, but there is no need to pay for something you don't want. If you must have a travel crib or play yard, and a bassinet wouldn't hurt, this Graco is tough to beat for value over the product's lifespan.

Read more: Graco Pack 'n Play On the Go review

Not Recommended: Not an Actual Travel Crib

Dream on me travel light playard.

• Ease of Use 5.0
• Comfort 4.0

Read more: Dream On Me Travel Light Playard review

Compare Products

How We Test Travel Crib

We purchased and tested each travel crib in this review with side-by-side comparison of competitors. This testing process provides detailed insight, as we are uniquely positioned to determine which products outperform the competition with the most valuable features and functions. Unlike a review of a single product with no comparisons, we include the details on why some options stand out and have features that can make your travel more manageable. Each travel crib is tested for ease of use, portability, comfort, quality, and eco-health. We conduct over 15 individual tests on each option to assign scores and determine rank and award winners. Testing exposes the details you need to find the right travel option for your family and wallet. Award-winning cribs for travel should be easy to set up and fold into their travel bags. They are lightweight, relatively compact, and easy to carry or fit in smaller spaces, so you can quickly stow them on public transportation or in crowded trunk spaces.

Why Trust GearLab

We've been testing baby gear since 2013 with updates to our travel crib review, including purchasing and testing over 15 options through the years. The portable crib team is led by our founder, Dr. Juliet Spurrier . Dr. Spurrier is a mother of 2 and a board-certified pediatrician. She uses her knowledge as a physician and her background as a mother in the crib selection process, focusing on safety and quality. The test team includes Bob Wofford , father of 7 and our Senior Review Analyst. Bob performs side-by-side testing for each metric, comparing the products against one another before moving on to our real-world parents. Wendy Schmitz and Abriah Wofford , Senior Review Editors, round out the team and participate in testing and analyzing the final results to help select winners and product ranks.

How to Pick the Best Travel Crib

Choosing a travel crib is easy if you keep a few key things in mind. With a few considerations in mind, we think you can find the right options for your needs and baby.

Is it portable enough?

If you plan to travel with this crib, it is important to consider how portable it really is. Considering the folded product's size, shape, and weight is important to determine how well it will travel. Depending on your use, you will likely want a different travel option. Taking it across town in your trunk to grandma's house might allow you to choose a bigger option. While plane travel, fitting it in an overhead bin or carrying it through the airport might necessitate a smaller or more lightweight choice.

Setup can be a big deal. There is a big difference between a quick setup option and an involved process that is frustrating to complete. By the time you reach your destination and need to set up the crib, you often have a tired and perhaps crabby little one who needs a sleep session. Setting up your crib quickly is key, and we prefer those you can set up with speed.

Last, choosing an option that fits within your budget can be important. There were several value options in this lineup, and we think most families will not need to compromise, even if price is a factor in choosing which to buy.

Analysis and Test Results

We rigorously tested popular portable cribs, including in-house lab testing and real-world use, to determine their most essential features and which cribs offer the best performance .

Because a travel crib isn't essential for baby gear, the cost may be more of a consideration than it might be on a critical gear item. Luckily, some options perform well and sport reasonable prices, or the higher-quality (more expensive) options can be used for more than one child, thereby dispersing the price over a longer lifespan. The Graco On-The-Go Pack N Play is a versatile travel crib that works as a playpen and infant bassinet. Multiple functions build a value that goes beyond its low price, making it a versatile mainstay for many families. The Baby Joy Playpen is a higher-ranking option with a reasonable price that gives parents an easy-to-use crib that is lightweight and sets up in around a minute, which is perfect for when you reach your destination after a long day of travel. The Lotus Travel Crib is more expensive. Still, the quality is evident, and the crib can also be used as a smaller playpen and bassinet, extending its useful lifetime.

Ease of Use

Testing ease of use for portable cribs includes setting up, folding, and fitting them in the travel bag. We did not test the accessories for these products, as these varied widely and were not comparable, but depending on what they are, you may want to take a closer look at them and how they might meet your needs.

Setup time for these varies significantly between 1 minute to over 27 minutes for the initial setup. Setup time decreases considerably with practice, but the harder cribs remain challenging because they have more steps or assembly. While practice can make perfect (or at least quicker), you can't change a convoluted process into a simple one, no matter how many times you practice.

The BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light earns a high score for ease of use with an average setup of 1:37 minutes after multiple tests. This option requires unfolding, locking the legs (above left), and securing the mattress (above right). This short turnaround time means you can have a sleeping baby resting peacefully quickly after a day of travel. The Baby Joy also has a quick setup of 1 minute on average once you know what you are doing. The Phil and Teds Traveller, on the other hand, earns the lowest score . This crib takes an average of 8:34 minutes to set up, even after significant practice. The Traveller requires complete assembly and dismantling every time you use it. It comes with more parts than the competition, and your baby could be wide awake and crabby by the time you assemble it. This time seems excessive to us. Most of the competition is closer to 2 minutes, as the Graco Pack 'n Play On the Go takes an average of 1:47 minutes, and the Lotus Travel Crib requires 2:13 minutes.

We also test the ease of folding and fitting the cribs into their included travel bags. This experience varies between easy and unbelievably frustrating. The BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light is easy to open and close and is the easiest to fit in its travel bag, thanks to its smaller size and a well-designed bag that includes some wiggle room (why don't they all do this?). Alternatively, the Lotus Travel Crib is easy to set up but a struggle to fold and fit into the bag (why can't they make the bag a wee bit bigger?). Sometimes, we failed to squeeze the Lotus into the bag and had to open and refold it to fit it in the bag, which felt like a design flaw to us. The Phil and Teds Traveller is the hardest to open, close and fit into the bag. The crib parts need to be precisely arranged in the bag to ensure everything fits since it doesn't fold like the competition; if you get it wrong, you'll have to take everything out of the bag to try again.

Portability

The primary use for travel cribs is to provide a safe sleep location for your baby when you are away from home. If a crib is too heavy to lift and carry or too large to stow in small spaces, it could be a stress creator instead of helpful gear. For this reason, we think portability is one of the essential features of travel cribs. The smaller and lighter a crib, generally speaking, the better.

Your fitness level or the kind of travel you plan to do could make this metric feel less critical to you. A more substantial option might work if you are a bodybuilder with an SUV driving to your destination. If you are a petite person who is traveling alone on a plane, the size and weight and how easy it is to stow might override most other considerations.

The Phil and Teds Traveller is the lightest product in this review, with an in-bag weight of 7.4 lbs. It is also the smallest when folded/dismantled, measuring 6.5"H x 27.2"L x 8.8"W. However, it didn't score well in other metrics, and the setup time of over 8 minutes may negate the small size and lighter weight. Of course, if you're packing this crib for a longer distance, you may find the arduous setup acceptable to have a lighter weight.

On the other hand, the BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light weighs 12.8 lbs, measures 19.5"H x 23.6"L x 6.6"W when folded, and scored well in every metric, earning the top overall score. Adding five extra pounds may seem like a lot, but when you consider that the Joovy Room2 weighs 26.8 lbs , it will seem feather-light in comparison. Probably a good compromise of higher performance and lightweight is the Baby Joy Playpen , 10.25 lbs, and measures 22"H x 24"L x 7"W when in the carry bag.

The Phil and Teds Traveller earned a high score for portability, with the BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light, Baby Joy, and the Lotus Travel Crib all coming in second. The Joovy Room2 and the 4moms Breeze came in at the bottom of the pack. The 4moms Breeze is the largest folded option, measuring 12.1"H x 30.7"L x 12.2"W in the bag. This option feels more like something you'd take on a road trip, but perhaps not on an airplane.

Given the strict safety regulations governing this type of gear, you'd think the competition would be similar in their relative comfort level. However, the materials and design of each sleeping surface vary and influence the comfort of the crib.

Most contenders have a soft mattress that ranges from dense and hard to ultra-squishy and so soft that your baby quickly hits the hard support bottom. Soft and firm are important, but squishing down to the hard base is likely a poor design.

The Phil and Teds Traveller has a unique self-inflating mattress that we struggle to inflate fully and was somewhat bowed even with the baby's weight in place. Without total inflation, the pad is uncomfortable and provides no support (think poorly inflated air mattress that results in your baby sleeping more or less on the ground). The Baby Joy has an easy-to-compress foam pad that results in the baby resting on the rigid plastic board under the foam, earning a low score for comfort.

On the other end of the spectrum, the BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light (above left) and the Lotus Travel Crib (above right) earned higher marks thanks to soft, thicker cushions with the support that didn't squash to a thin mattress under a baby's weight. It was easy to see the difference in the quality of materials and the designs that helped one crib mattress earn higher scores over another in a side-by-side comparison.

The quality of portable cribs varies significantly. Some products are sturdy with tightly woven mesh and durable fabric with even stitching. Other options are somewhat wobbly when we press on the top rails, and the mesh easily stretches, or it has loose threads and off-kilter stitching.

The Joovy Room2 and the 4moms Breeze earned top scores. Both cribs have sturdy frames and tight mesh with impressive attention to detail.

The BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light and the Lotus Travel Crib earned some of the highest scores, with higher-end materials and solid construction in simple designs that the manufacturers execute well. The less expensive Baby Joy earns an impressive above-average score for quality, making it the highest quality, budget-friendly option in the review.

In January 2014, 15 baby gear categories were found not to pose a fire safety risk and were made exempt from meeting flammability standards. This exemption means the manufacturers of these types of baby products are free to make products without harmful flame retardants. Unfortunately, that doesn't mean they all make an effort.

Flame retardant chemicals are harmful to humans. We feel that exposing little ones to these kinds of chemicals should be limited whenever feasible. Only a handful of products in this review provide information about what materials and chemicals they use (or don't) to create their portable cribs. We think transparency is essential, and parents should demand more information from companies before buying. The Center For Environmental Health (CEH) surveyed leading manufacturers of baby gear on their use of flame retardant chemicals . The CEH lists the following survey questions on its website:

The manufacturer's responses to the survey were used to rank the companies based on their efforts to remove harmful chemicals from their products. While not all manufacturers are listed, it is a good starting point for parents looking for more information on what chemicals are in their baby's gear. The list also shows which companies provide transparency and express an openness to divulge information to consumers.

The BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light and Lotus Travel Crib earned top marks for eco-health. BabyBjorn states that their product is "free from harmful substances and approved according to Oeko-Tex Standard 100 , Class 1 for baby products" they go on to say “ materials do not contain any harmful or allergenic substances. ” The Guava Family company makes the following statement about the Lotus Travel Crib, “ The Lotus Travel Crib has been thoroughly tested for chemical emissions and is certified to the GREENGUARD GOLD standard, making it the only travel crib in the world to have received this rigorous certification. ” They go on to say that the Lotus is “ … free of PVC, Lead, Phthalates, Formaldehyde, Heavy Metals (Cadmium, Arsenic, Mercury, etc.) and many others. ”

Most portable cribs in this review scored as low as you can go and failed to provide information about chemicals and flame retardants on their websites, owner's manuals, or the CEH. Luckily, except for the Graco Pack 'n Play on the Go and the Baby Joy Playpen , most of our award-winning products are free from harmful chemicals and impressed during testing of other metrics, earning the top two overall scores.

The Best Baby Carriers

Best Baby Backpack Carriers

The Best Infant Car Seats | Crash Tested

The Best Travel Strollers

The Best Double Strollers

The Best Bassinets

The Best Travel Crib, 2024 [Reviews of Portable Comfy Cribs]

THIS POST MAY CONTAIN COMPENSATED LINKS. FIND MORE INFO IN MY DISCLAIMER.

After a portable crib for travel? 

As family travel bloggers we have tried both using hotel cribs as well as taking various types of cribs with us on our trips until we found the right one.

We know how challenging it can be to get a baby to sleep (don't tell me your baby sleeps like a dream - I don't want to know!). And I'm sure that you are aware that it might be even more challenging to get them to sleep in new locations.

That is why we love travel cots so much! Your baby will sleep so much better when they sleep in a familiar crib.

A travel cot for baby is handy for not only for vacations with your baby, but it is also really handy for when you visit friends or grandparents as well.

In this guide, we will outline features that we love of each, as well as share any negatives that we found of the baby travel cribs as well.

I hope this guide to choosing the best travel crib for baby and toddlers will help you choose the best baby travel bed for your family.

Not in the mood for research and reading and just want to find out which is the best portable baby cot?

- WHAT IS THE BEST TRAVEL CRIB FOR TODDLERS - 

Our top pick is the Baby Björn Travel Crib Light

• The cot is lightweight (11lb)
• Easy to set up
• Easy to carry
• Comfortable for babies and toddlers
• Suitable for ages 0-3 years (a worthwhile investment)

Click here to check out the BabyBjörn Travel Crib Light Travel Crib

Skip the research and simply grab the best baby crib for newborns?

- THE BEST PORTABLE CRIB FOR NEWBORNS - 

Our top pick is the Beberoad Love Baby Travel Bassinet

• Compact fold 
• Lightweight
• Great for carry-on or hand luggage
• Mesh allows for airflow

Click here to check out the Beberoad Love Baby Travel Bassinet

Keen for all the info? Keep reading.

What Should a Baby Sleep in When Traveling?

We recommend that when your baby is newborn it is best to use a portable sleeper or bassinet when traveling as it is small and compact to keep your infant safe.

When your baby is a few months older, it is better to move them into a full sized travel crib.

Do you Really Need a Travel Crib?

A travel crib is very useful if you travel a lot. However, a travel crib can also be useful if you spend weekends with family and they do not have a spare crib for your little one.

A travel crib is definitely a must have when traveling abroad or away for long periods as not all accommodations have suitable cribs to use for your baby. When you purchase a travel crib you are ensuring that your little one will always have a suitable and safe space and bed to sleep in.

The most popular travel crib for babies from newborn age is the BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light .

Let's be honest here, most hotels have baby cots available for you to use. So why spend the money and carry along one extra piece of luggage?

Here is why:

• Your baby will have a sleeping space that they are used to. It can be challenging for babies to fall asleep in unknown spaces and let's face it, we want to relax on holidays, not deal with tired babies who are struggling to fall asleep. Using the same crib wherever you go, will mean that your baby will get better sleep.
• You know that the cot will be the right size for you baby's age.   We went on a trip to Lombok and one of the hotels gave us a crib that was suitable for newborns.  It was TINY! Avalee was only 4 months, and she was really squashed in the crib. Vietnam hotels also have tiny cots, their cots are probably more suitable for 1 year olds, because our 2 year old had to sleep curled up in order to fit in the cot.
• You know that the crib will be safe for your baby. On more than one occasion we received cots from the hotel that would collapse as soon as our daughter pressed against the side. Needless to say they were useless and pretty dangerous to use!
• You know that you will have a crib for your baby. One a few occasions we have pre-requested a cot on the booking form only to arrive at the hotel and be told that they only have one cot and that another family is using it. Our baby doesn't normally co-sleep with us, so it was a nightmare.
• You know your cot is clean. Again we can tell you some horror stories about being given moldy and dirty baby cots.  So gross!
• If you purchase one of these best baby travel beds, you will find that it can double up as a safe playard for your baby - hallo downtime!

So should you travel with your own baby travel crib? - Uhmmmmm hell yes!!!

Best Baby Travel Crib  Comparison Chart 

Below is a comparison chart of our picks for the best travel baby beds; which are mentioned in this article.  

You can then read our travel cot reviews below featuring both compact traveling cribs, as well as a full size travel crib for older babies.

Can I Use a Travel Crib As a Regular Crib?

Yes you can however it is always advisable to check with the manufacturer to verify the weight and safety guidelines. The problem with a regular crib is that they are usually really heavy, they don't come with a travel bag and they are also typically much harder to set up and pack away.

If you have a full size travel crib, your child should be able to sleep in the travel crib until around 3 years old.  

We do recommend though that you invest in a travel crib that is good quality. You may have to also invest in a thicker mattress for when at home for extra comfort.

What's The Difference Between a Travel Crib And a Portable Crib?

So what exactly is the difference between a travel cot and a portable cot?

• A travel cot is smaller than a portable cot . Some travel cribs even fit in a backpack that you can carry-on to an airplane.
• A travel crib can fold up . Travel cots need to fit into carry-on luggage & in car trunks.
• Baby travel beds are lightweight. Travel cots need to be lightweight enough to be carried around easily.

The best travel cot 2024 has on offer, will tick the boxes above, as well as offer many of the same benefits (safety and comfort) as a regular portable crib.

What's the Difference Between a Travel Crib Vs a Pack n Play

You might have a Pack 'n Play at home that you are considering taking on your trip. So what exactly is the difference between a travel crib and a Pack 'n Play?

A Pack 'n Play is typically a lot bulkier and heavier than a well-made travel crib. Which means that it is impractical to pack for a trip overseas. 

As a positive, some of the infant travel cribs listed below can double up as a Pack 'n Play, whilst still giving you the lightweight, compact benefits.

Travel Toddler Crib Vs a Toddler Travel Bed

Toddler travel beds are designed for kids who are 2+ years old. They are a great alternative for a traveling baby bed for active toddlers. 

Whilst many of the baby travel cribs listed below can be used for toddlers, a travel toddler bed is perfect for toddlers who have managed to work out how to climb out of the cribs.

A bed is typically similar to a camping or roll-out mattress.

Our selection below is suitable for those looking for travel beds for babies or a travel crib for 1 year old.

If your toddler is still happy and safe in a crib, then we highly recommend you keep them contained in one of the cribs below as well.

But for those who have climbers, best to go with a baby sleep travel bed instead.

How to Choose the Best Travel Crib 2024 has to Offer

If you are planning on traveling a lot, you will need to invest some dollars in order to purchase a light travel crib that is also compact, easy to fold, safe, and also comfortable for your little one.

You might also like to purchase a crib that will last for longer than the first year as well.

Let's look at each of these criteria more closely, so you can make a smart decision on which crib would be the best travel bed for your baby.

There are several different types of travel cribs on the market:

• portable cribs,
• toddler travel cot,
• regular travel cribs,
• travel pack 'n play

It is important to choose the right type of crib for both the age of your baby as well as for your circumstances (how much packing space do you have? Are you driving or flying? etc.)

If your baby is still little, and you typically don't travel very often, you might want to grab one of the cocoon-type cribs.

Best lightweight travel crib

The size of your folding travel crib is really important. It needs to fold up small enough that you can easily transport it around.

It also needs to be lightweight so that you can carry it easily. In order to find the best lightweight travel crib for you, we have shared weights for each of the travel cribs in the table above.

Make sure to know down what size the cot is when assembled as well as when it is folded up. The best travel bed for infant use should be able to fit easily in your suitcase.

If you are looking for the best travel crib for flying, it is important to purchase a crib that comes with a protective bag, one that is comfy enough to carry around and one that is lightweight enough to carry from point A to point B.

Another important factor when it comes to size is to ensure that the crib will actually be large enough to fit your baby comfortably.

If you travel frequently, it only makes sense to invest in a crib that will last for at least a few years. Some travel cribs are suitable for newborn babies only, but many can be used for 2-3 years.

You will find though, that even though many of these cribs stipulate that they can fit kids up to 3 of age, it might not be best suited for that age bracket.

Once your toddler is 2, I would suggest that you do some research to find the best travel crib for toddler use. The crib should allow your child to move around, but it should also be sturdy enough to keep them contained.

You have to be really careful when it comes to travel cribs.  As many might be super light and super cheap but have thin flimsy mattresses. 

You also want to buy a crib that offers great air flow. 

So when you're trying to pick the best travel cribs for babies or toddlers, then it is important to make sure that it ticks both the boxes for comfort as well as air flow.

Of course safety should be the most important factor to consider. We have only included baby travel cots that have met the American Standards in terms of safety. 

When it comes to safety is so important to buy a crib that fits with your baby's age and activity levels. Especially important for toddlers who try to climb out of their cribs.

Also look at how snug the mattress fits into the cot, we don't want the mattress to be loose or have gaps.  And think about how the sheet will be held in place as well.

Ease of Use

The best travel baby bed should be  super simple and easy to set up, as well as fold up.

Make sure to have a look at how the cots fold up, some are super easy whilst others require some fiddly assembly.  

Top 10 Travel Crib Reviews

Below are our travel crib reviews of, in our opinion, the best travel cots 2024 has to offer. 

We share both the positives as well as the negatives of these top rated travel cribs, to help you decide which crib would be the best for your baby and your travel-lifestyle.

1.  BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light Review (Most Comfortable Travel Crib)

The BabyBjorn Travel Crib Light Silver is, in our opinion, one of the best selling travel cots. And one by a well-known baby brand as well. We love that this cot will last you all the way from newborn till age 3!

This travel cot is nice and lightweight.  It is easy to set up and fold away and they have made it easy to carry as well.

We love that the sides of the crib is made from a soft mesh material, the mesh is fabulous and allows air flow to circulate through the crib.

The base of the cot is lovely and sturdy to ensure that your baby has a safe sleeping environment. And the insulated mattress means that your baby will be comfy as well. 

Baby Bjorn travel crib dimensions:

• Assembled: 32 x 44 x 24"
• Folded down in carry bag: 19 x 23.5 x 5.5"
• Suitable for 0 -3 years
• Lightweight (11 lb)
• Soft mesh material to allow for airflow
• Nice insulated mattress to keep baby comfortable
• Premium Price tag

>>> Click here to check the current price on this crib or click the button below.

2. Lotus Travel Crib Review

The Lotus Everywhere Travel Crib by Guava Family is very popular as it combines a travel crib for sleeping with a playard for confined play into one handy cot.

This crib might just be one of the best portable crib 2024 has to offer. Why? It only takes around 15 seconds to set up!!  Effortless set up when you are tired or jet lagged is definitely a bonus.

The clear mesh sides allow for that all important airflow and you can also unzip the one side if you wish to allow your little one to crawl in and out of their crib for playtime.

The Guava Family Lotus Travel Crib has been thoroughly tested for chemical emissions and is certified to the GREENGUARD GOLD standard!

We love that the crib comes with a backpack (with convertible straps) style carry bag. 

Guava Family Travel Crib Dimensions:

• Packed Dimensions: 23 x 12 x 8"
• Assembled Dimensions: 42 x 24 X 25"
• Suitable 0 -3 years
• Lightweight (13 lb) and easy to carry with the backpack-style bag
• Travel crib and portable playard in one
• Super quick to set up
• Baby mattress could be a bit thicker

>>> Click here to check the current price on the Guava Lotus travel crib or click the button below.

3. Pamo Babe Lightweight Foldable Travel Crib  Review

This lightweight portable baby crib is an affordable travel crib that will last from baby to toddler.

This travel crib is easy to assemble and comes with a carry bag to make it easier to carry from one destination to the next and is perfect for travel on a plane.

The travel crib can be used for sleep or playtime.  The mesh fabric not only allows for airy design but means you can also see your little one easily for keeping an eye.

It comes with a mattress and a fitted sheet. The fitted sheet is easy to remove and clean. The crib is also easy to clean, simply wipe it with a cloth.

Travel baby crib dimensions:

• Packed Dimensions: 24 x 6 x 19"
• Sleeping Space Dimensions: 33 x 22 x 26"
• Comes with a travel carry bag and a waterproof mattress cover
• Great for changing diapers as well
• Suitable for 0 - 3 years
• Mattress could be thicker and bigger
• Side zippers do not slide easily when crib is empty

>>> Click here to check the current price on this travel crib or click the button below.

4. Beberoad Love Baby Travel Bassinet  Review

The Beberoad Love Baby Travel Bassinet is the best mini crib and is the best travel crib for newborn babies . Looking for a travel crib that fits in a suitcase - this is it.

It is incredibly lightweight (4.4 lbs) and is suitable for babies aged 0 - 5 months or up to 22 lbs.

The mesh panels and breathable fabric allow for ample air circulation. 

The crib is very safe to use as it has a T-lock frame, which is sturdy and safe.

Due to its size and weight, it is our pick for the best travel crib for flying. Simply pack it into your hand luggage and you are ready to go, or fold it up and carry it by the handle.

Travel Crib Dimensions:

• Packed Dimensions: 20.5 x 19.7 x 1.7"
• Assembled Dimensions: 31.5 x 10 x 16"
• Compact Fold
• Great for carry-on luggage for flying
• Suitable for babies aged 0 -5 months only

>>> Click here to check the current price on this bassinet or click the button below.

5. besrey 3-in-1 Portable Baby Travel Bassinet Review

The besrey 3-in-1 Portable Travel Bassinet is great for traveling with a new baby, it is quick and easy to fold up or set up.

The compact size when folded means it takes up minimal space and storage.

When set up you can choose from 2 modes, rocking or stationery mode.

Mesh sides ensure you have visibility of your baby when sleeping. There is also airflow in the bassinet. 

The crib also has a mosquito net keeping bugs out when sleeping. There is also a built-in storage basket.

• Great for newborn babies
• Suitable for babies up to 5 months

>>> Click here to check the current price on this travel baby bassinet or click the button below.

6. Dream On Me Travel Light Playard Review

The Travel Light is a great travel crib that is super affordable.

It is very easy to use as it sets up and folds down in minutes making it the ideal travel companion for infants and toddlers.

It folds up flat and can be stored in its durable carry bag which makes it perfect for traveling and using whilst out and about.

The Travel Light Playard comes with a soft mattress, making the space comfortable for your child whether sleeping or playing.

The Travel Light is available in 4 colors.

The Playard sides are made of soft, airy mesh fabric that allows your baby to breathe easily. The see-through fabric helps you keep an eye on your baby and also makes it easy for your little one to look out and see you. 

• Easy to carry around
• Mesh sides for air flow
• Not very lightweight
• Padded mattress is a bit thin

>>> Click here to check the current price or click the button below.

7. Lumiere All-in-One Travel Crib & Bassinet Review

The Lumiere All-in-One Travel Crib and Bassinet is a great option as a travel crib, especially if you are traveling with newborns. The travel baby crib is lightweight (13 lbs).

The baby travel crib comes with a comfortable bassinet layer that can be added and removed with ease.  

The Lumiere All-in-One Travel Crib comes with a breathable mattress and its own fitted sheet. It also includes a white noise sound machine to help create a calming environment when your little one goes to sleep.

When you do not want to use the crib you can fold it flat for easy storage. It also has a carry bag with two-way handles so can be used as a back pack.

The removable sheet cover makes the crib easy to maintain and keep clean.

• Removable bassinet layer
• Includes carry bag for easy transporting
• Not as light as other travel cribs

8. Chicco Alfa Lite Lightweight Travel Playard  Review

The Chicco Alfa Lite Lightweight Travel Playard  is designed for babies and toddler aged 1 - 3 years old. We love it because it packs up so compact and fits into its own zippered carry bag making it easy to take with you when traveling. 

The Chicco Alfa Lite Leightweight Travel Playard weighs only 12.5 pounds.

The fast, snap-open design makes it a breeze to set up. The lightweight mesh construction provides airflow.

The travel crib comes with a mattress and mattress cover. The mattress cover and frame fabrics are removable and machine washable making it great for easy cleaning.

The crib can also be used as a playpen for playtime.

• Lightweight (12.5 lb) and easy to carry around with carry bag
• Compact and small for rooms with little space
• Mattress is a bit thin

9. Silver Cross Slumber 3-in-1 Travel Crib  Review

The Silver Cross Slumber 3-in-1 Travel Crib is great for home, vacation, and visiting family and friends. The travel crib is great for babies from birth up to 3 years old.

The is quick and easy to set up and fold close for easy storage.  When folded the travel crib has a carry case and handle to make it easy when moving around.

The crib is not as lightweight as other travel cribs we have listed lightweight, weighing  15.6 pounds makes it a little cumbersome to carry when moving it around.

We love that the crib comes with a bassinet making it great to use for newborns. The fabric is soft and the mattress is comfortable. 

The mesh sides and raised bassinet make it possible to use as a side sleeper crib.

• Assemble and disassembly only takes a few minutes
• Can be used as a co-sleeper crib
• Not as lightweight as other travel cribs 

10. Palopalo 3 in 1 Travel Lightweight Crib Review

Another fabulous buy is the Palopalo 3 in 1 Lightweight Travel Crib. Travelers love this cot, because it is still a light travel crib if you are looking for a full size travel crib rather than the cocoon or bassinet size ones. 

This travel portable crib has plenty of room to move. It is recommended for newborns till 3 years old, so it is a great option as one of the best travel cribs for toddlers as well.

The sides are fully mesh, allowing nice airflow to circulate through the cot. You also have the option of zipping off one of the sides, we don't really ever use this functionality, but hey it is there.

The mattress is lovely and soft and water resistant. It can also be folded into a compact size.

The Palopalo 3 in 1 Lightweight Travel Crib folds down and packs into a compact carry bag that you can carry over your shoulder. 

The crib can also be outdoors, for example at the beach, as it has a UV mesh top that offers sun protection.

The negative? You will need to practice the assembly and disassembly before you go.

Palopalo 3 in 1 Lightweight Travel Crib  dimensions:

• Packed Dimensions: 19 x 27"
• Sleeping Space Dimensions: 35 x 22 x 27"
• Light full size travel crib 
• Stable, comfortable and spacious
• Comes with an over-the shoulder carry bag
• Well ventilated
• Not as easy to assemble and pack up as the BabyBjorn Travel Crib.
• Carry bag is not very durable

>>> Click here to check the current price on the Palopalo Travel Crib or click the button below.

Best Crib Block Out Covers

When traveling with a travel crib block out covers are great to use to ensure that no matter where you set up your portable crib, your little one can rest without the light affecting their sleep.

Below are our top picks for the best crib block out covers.

1. SlumberPod Portable Blackout Canopy Cover

>>>  Click here to check the current price on the SlumberPod Canopy Cover

2. LYFFXYH StretchyCrib Tent Blackout Canopy Cover

>>>  Click here to check the current price on the LYFFXYH StretchyCrib Canopy Cover

3. SnoozeShade Pack N Play Blackout Cover

>>>  Click here to check the current price on the SnoozeShade Canopy Cover

Verdict on Our Pick of the Best Portable Travel Crib

We hope you found our portable travel crib reviews and comparison table helpful and that you managed to find a portable travel crib that is comfy and right for your baby and your style of travel.

Have you read through all our portable baby bed reviews and you are still not sure which one to buy?

I recommend you invest in a crib that will last you for as many years as possible. Choose a travel crib that is 12 lb and under. And make sure that it is easy to pack up and carry.

If you are still feeling stuck and confused, here are our personal preferences depending on if you are traveling with a toddler or newborn baby.

The best travel crib for toddlers is the  BabyBjörn Travel Crib Light . Not only is it lightweight weighing only 11 lbs but is super easy to set up and carry. It is also a great investment as it is suitable for ages 0 - 3 years.

Prefer to have a bassinet when traveling with your newborn? Our top pick for the best portable crib for newborns is the Beberoad Love Baby Travel Bassinet . It is compact when folded and can be transported when flying in hand luggage or carry-on.

Further Reading:

• Click to see a list of handy  baby travel products  to take along on your  holiday with your baby .
• After some gear for yourself? Click to see our favorite  traveler gear .

2024 - Wanderlust Storytellers. All Rights Reserved.

About Us  |  Contact Us  | Work with Us  |  Privacy Policy  |  Disclaimer

* Disclaimer: Wanderluststorytellers.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com and other Amazon sites.

10 Best Baby Travel Crib Reviews 2023

This post contains affiliate links. If you click and buy we may make a commission, at no additional charge to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more details.

Sharing is Caring!

• Pinterest 2

Are you off on a  travel adventure  with baby in tow? If so, you’re probably looking for the perfect travel crib for them to sleep in while away.

After all, babies aren’t well-suited to sleeping in hotel beds, roll-out-couches, airbeds, and camping cots. Or, whichever other sleeping spots are usually on offer, for that matter.

In fact, sleeping in any of these spots isn’t a safe option. As such, you’ll want to find a safe travel crib specifically for them.

In this post, I’m going to help you do exactly this! I’ve reviewed ten of the best travel cribs as voted by hundreds of customers – and included a helpful buyer’s guide.

At A Glance: Our Top Ten Best Travel Crib Picks :

• Graco Travel Lite Bassinet, Crib & Playpen
• Guava Lotus Travel Crib
• Flisko 2-in-1 Travel Crib With Bassinet
• Unilove Hug Me Portable Co-Sleeping Crib
• Fisher-Price On-the-Go Baby Dome
• Mornyray 3-in-1 Newborn Travel Bed Backpack
• Besrey Rocking Travel Crib
• INFANS 2-in-1 Rocking Travel Bassinet
• Graco Pack’ n Play Playard Snuggle Suite LX
• BABYBJORN Travel Crib Light

What is the Best Travel Crib?

The best travel cribs stand out from the rest for various reasons. They’re quality options with special features that are easy to use.

Apart from this, they’re also designed specifically for use on travels away from home. Their features are useful, they’re lightweight, and setting them up anywhere is a breeze. 

Of course, they also offer a safe and sturdy place for your little one to sleep. With this in mind, here are some of the features you can expect from the best portable cribs:

• lightweight
• quick-to-fold
• easy-to-clean
• quality design
• comfortable
• certified non-toxic and low VOC emissions

So, now you know what to look for in the top travel cribs, let’s get into the best travel crib reviews!

1. Graco Travel Lite Bassinet, Crib & Playpen

• Lightweight 3-stage travel bassinet, crib, and play yard – available in grey/cyan and  blue/charcoal
• Suits newborns, babies, and toddlers up to 35″ tall
• Airy mesh sides
• Shady canopy with toys
• Quilted pad – compatible  sheets  and  mattress  sold separately
• Comes with a travel bag
• Integrated wheels
• Push-button folds in seconds
• 23.2″ wide x 33.5″ long x 32.2″ high
• Weighs 19 lbs

Things We Love!

This 20% smaller travel crib offers all the necessities of a regular crib at only 19 lbs. Apart from its size and weight, I love that it’s so easy to collapse and carry.

Simply press the buttons, fold it, and pack it wherever it needs to go. When using the Travel Lite, you also won’t need to worry about different age stages.

It comes ready to adapt as they grow from newborns, into an infant and then a toddler. The hanging bassinet has two height levels to suit them at both the baby and newborn stages.

Then remove the bassinet to reveal the toddler play yard. No matter the setting, though, you can easily see your little one through the airy mesh sides.

• It’s lightweight and easy/quick to fold, making it ideal for use when traveling
• Quickly transforms from a newborn and infant bassinet into a toddler play yard
• The baby bassinet is height-adjustable and suits two age stages – newborn and baby
• Pad isn’t removable; you can only wipe it down with a damp cloth

Overall Thoughts

I think this is one of the best travel cribs, especially if you need a crib that’ll fit into a tight space. It’s economical, too, as you don’t need to purchase a separate canopy or bassinet.

This travel crib will see them through from newborn age up until they’re toddlers. I think that the shady sun canopy with hanging toys is a welcome added bonus, as well.

2. Guava Lotus Travel Crib

• Ultra-lightweight, modern travel play yard and crib – available in charcoal
• Suits babies and toddlers from 0-3 years old
• Airy mesh sides with a zippered side-door
• Soft foam pad –  plush quilted sheet  and  cotton sheet  sold separately
• Zig-zag folds and unfolds in seconds
• 42″ long x 32″ wide x 25″ high
• Weighs 13 lbs
• Greenguard Gold certified

You may have heard of Greenguard Gold certification when buying a crib mattress for your baby. Well, this travel crib just happens to be one of the few travel cribs that are certified, too.

Greenguard Gold and CertiPUR certified mattresses are tested and proven to emit the lowest VOCs. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are chemical compounds emitted by many items.

Some of these chemicals are toxic. Naturally, we definitely want to keep these emissions to the minimum around baby! So, it’s a welcome sight to find a baby crib that’s safe in this respect.

Apart from the safety aspects, though, I love that this crib offers extra convenience. Its unique zippered door lets them play and rest, and you cuddle, nurse, or even co-nap with them.

• One of the few travel cribs certified Greenguard Gold for lowest VAC’s and emissions
• This travel crib is ultra-lightweight, weighing in at only 13 lbs when packed
• The unique zippered door allows for easy access, playtime, nursing, and cuddling
• Newborn bassinet sold separately
• No wheels or canopy

I think this is one of the best travel cribs in terms of safety. Sometimes, it’s not the things we can see that pose the greatest risks to our baby.

Invisible emissions can cause a variety of  health problems , including allergies and asthma. With the Guava travel crib, you can protect them from these unseen and equally unsafe chemicals. 

So, I think this crib is a great choice. This is especially true if you’re planning on using it a lot or as much as their standard crib.

After all, why go to the trouble to get a Greenguard Gold certified mattress and not a certified travel crib?

3. Flisko 2-in-1 Travel Crib With Bassinet

• Utilitarian, 2-in-1 travel crib and play yard with newborn bassinet – available in grey
• Suits babies from 0-3 years old
• Airy, transparent mesh sides with a zippered door
• 1″ insulated waterproof foam mattress pad and sheet
• Click-in/out and button folds in a minute
• 43″ long x 28″ wide x 28″ high
• Weighs 14.42 lbs

This Flisko crib includes everything you need to get started. For its price, it’s definitely one of the best travel cribs, in my opinion. It even comes with a crib sheet and waterproof pad!

I love that it includes a baby bassinet, too, so you don’t need to buy any extras. All its sides are covered in a robust, airy mesh through which you can easily see them.

You can easily see baby as they sleep on the raised baby bassinet. So, you can easily check on them without getting out of bed or walking nearby and waking them.

The toddler play yard has ample space for them to play and sleep. And, you can join them, too, with its useful zippered doorway.

• Comes with removable, mesh, clip-on baby bassinet
• The crib pad is waterproof
• Comes with a fitting crib sheet
• No canopy or wheels

I think that this travel crib is great value for money considering all the extras included. You won’t need to buy a crib sheet, waterproof pad, or newborn/infant bassinet as they’re included.

It also sets up and folds quickly and easily, so you won’t need to waste time packing or unpacking it. Instead, you can spend more of your energy and time on  fun activities .

4. Unilove Hug Me Portable Co-Sleeping Crib

• Chic portable bedside crib – available in shadow grey and plum pink
• Suitable for newborns from 0-6 months old up to 19 lbs
• Suspended bassinet with 
• Airy mesh windows and zippered door
• Comes with crib mattress and sheet
• Comfy padded sides
• 360° rotating front wheels with anti-skid rubber strips and brakes
• Tool-free assembly and disassembly in minutes
• 24.8″ wide x 36.22″ long

If you’ve gotten used to your bedside crib at home, you may just love this portable version. Though it may not fold as quickly as some other options, it offers a lot in return.

This crib features a sturdy design that fits neatly to almost any bedside. In fact, I love that baby can co-sleep safely within reach inside it.

This is easily achieved by adjusting the crib’s height to one of seven settings and unfolding the door. Of course, these types of crib are suited only to newborns and young babies, though. 

However, if this is the type of portable crib for which you’re looking, you won’t find many better. Aside from its chic design and appealing color palettes, it’s comfy and functional. 

• Seven height settings ensure the crib fits snugly to your bedside
• Has a side door ideal for co-sleeping
• Its modern, stylish design is pleasing to the eye
• Not suitable for heavier/older babies or toddlers who can sit or stand
• Not waterproof
• Difficult to find fitting sheets as the crib pad is an unusual size

I think that this is the best travel crib in the co-sleeping bedside category. Not only does it offer everything that a normal bedside crib does, but it’s also light and portable.

So, you can take all the comforts of home with you on the road. In fact, this travel crib is multi-functional and economical as it wouldn’t be out of place in your home, either.

5. Fisher-Price On-the-Go Baby Dome

• Round portable baby crib – available in a variety of modern color designs
• Suits baby from 0 months up to when they can push up on their hands and knees
• Airy, transparent mesh sides
• Shady, full-cover, retractable UPF 20 canopy with a mesh window
• Detachable, washable pad
• Button-folds in seconds
• 31.38″ wide x 22″ high x 5.38″ deep
• Weighs 12.17 lbs

If you’re an urban explorer, you may be looking for something a little different for your ventures. Perhaps what you’re searching for is the unique On-The-Go Baby Dome?

It’s a travel crib that’s best suited for use outdoors – on that park excursion or even at a campsite. I love that it features a unique elliptical shape with a full-cover sunshade.

It’s so easy to fold and carry this portable crib bed, too. So, you won’t feel encumbered with the extra luggage. Simply click the buttons to fold it flat and go!

The On-The-Go Dome is also available in a variety of designs for boys and girls. Each of these comes with two matching dangling toys to entertain them while they’re snug inside their dome.

• Perfect for outdoor use at parks and recreation areas
• Comes with two detachable toys that dangle from toy loops on the canopy
• Folds flat in seconds
• Doesn’t come with a travel bag, and its folded dimensions may make it difficult to find a suitable one
• Only suits younger babies, not toddlers
• Doesn’t have wheels

I think this travel crib is well-suited to those who spend a lot of time lounging outdoors. It’s perfect for taking with on a family picnic, in-the-park birthday, or family camp.

Baby will get perfectly protected from bugs and the elements in their dome. And, you can easily check on them through the mesh windows or click open the dome to play.

6. Mornyray 3-in-1 Newborn Travel Bed Backpack

• 3-in-1 portable baby crib backpack – available in black, green, light green, light grey, and pink
• Suits baby from 0-12 months old
• Waterproof mattress
• Diaper changing pad
• A backpack that folds out into a baby bed in a minute
• 29.5″ long x 13″ wide x 8.66″ high 
• Weighs 2.93 lbs

As far as unique travel cribs go, this one has got to take the cake! Why? Well, because it’s a roomy, fully-functional backpack that literally expands into a baby bed.

Yes, you can store all your baby essentials and personal items in the special bag pockets. Then, pop it open when baby wants a lie-down without unloading your cargo. 

For this reason, I think that it’s one of the best travel cribs to take on a hike. Of course, you could also take it on trips to the park or friends and family’s houses. 

I love that it’s so inconspicuous – no one would ever guess that it’s a travel cot! If you’re looking for a bit more, there’s even a  Deluxe version  with a sun canopy and USB charging port.

• This unique newborn bed folds out to become a backpack
• Can be used as a portable changing mat, too
• The backpack is fully functional, with plenty of room for necessities
• Bag features a wet and dry separation bag, aluminum foil insulation, and ventilated mesh back support
• Made from waterproof, stain-resistant fabric
• No sun canopy
• Small bed not suitable for toddlers

I think this backpack is perfect for minimalistic moms who don’t favor tons of baggage. It’s multi-functional, too. You get a stylish backpack for carrying your and baby’s stuff. 

And, it pops out into a changing mat/baby crib for your little one to nap in. Sure, it’s not a sturdy play yard, but you might not want to lug around a travel crib on every short trip out.

7. Besrey Rocking Travel Crib

• Unisex, foldable travel crib – available in grey
• Suits newborns and infants
• Weight limit of 44 lbs
• Retractable, detachable mesh mosquito net canopy
• Comes with 1″ soft, breathable foam mattress pad and pillow
• One-handed self-standing fold in seconds
• 38.2″ long x 23.6″ wide x 41.3″ high
• Weighs 20.7 lbs

If your baby can’t sleep without being rocked, you’re probably out to buy a travel crib exactly like this one. Yes, it’s a portable crib that swings them gently to sleep, so you don’t have to!

I love that it also features full mesh sides. So, you can see baby from every angle – your bed, the doorway, or anywhere else.

The extra storage space is also a welcome addition. This crib has a storage basket underneath, as well as a side pocket and a bottle holder.

So, you can stow toys, wipes, baby bottles, nappies, and whatever else you need within reach. Yes, there’s no wondering where you put all your baby necessities with this travel crib!

• The full-cover mosquito net gives them complete protection
• Has a side pocket, cup holder, and a storage basket underneath
• Flip the leg supports to the 10° angled position to gently rock the crib from side to side 
• Only suits younger babies, not toddlers who can sit, climb, or stand

I think that this is the best travel crib for mums who want a travel crib as good as their rocking crib at home. It swings, has ample padding, extra storage space, and it’s portable.

The full-cover mosquito net keeps them well-protected from disease-carrying mosquitoes and other unwanted insects. It’s also perfect for hot climates as it’s roomy and ventilated.

8. INFANS 2-in-1 Rocking Travel Bassinet

• Modern baby travel crib – available in light grey
• Suits baby from 0-6 months
• Weight limit of 55 lbs
• Grey fabric sides with mesh windows
• Transparent, detachable mosquito net
• 1″ mattress with washable cover
• One-second, single-handed, pull-tab fold
• 34″ long x 22″ wide x 32.5-41″ high
• Weighs 14 lbs

This Infans travel crib is another of the best travel cribs in the swinging category. However, it rocks a bit more than the Besrey travel crib at a 15° angle and is height-adjustable.

So, you can adapt it to your bed or mattress height – whether it be tall or on the floor. After all, being able to see baby while they sleep is a big concern for us moms.

Seeing them isn’t a worry with this crib – it even has mesh windows for extra visibility. So, you can check on baby without getting out of bed or fussing and risking waking them. 

• A full-cover mosquito net gives them complete protection from pests
• Flip the leg supports to the 15° angled position to swing baby gently from side to side
• You can adjust the height of this crib from 32.5″ up to 41″ to suit your bed height
• Doesn’t come with a travel bag
• Suits younger babies, not toddlers who can sit, climb, or stand

I think this is another perfect travel crib for fussy babies who demand to get rocked to sleep. You can swing them gently off to bed without much back-breaking action on your part.

Of course, its roomy, airy bassinet, and full-cover mosquito net are also perfect for hot climates. Simply add a soft, cool, breathable cotton crib sheet, and they’ll likely sleep like a dream!

9. Graco Pack’ n Play Playard Snuggle Suite LX

• Deluxe travel crib, changing station, and play yard – available in grey/white
• Bassinet, baby seat, and play yard suit babies up to 18 lbs and 35″ tall
• Changing mat suits baby up to 30 lbs
• Transparent, airy mesh sides
• Detachable infant seat/bouncer with canopy
• Built-in pad
• Safe, 360° integrated wheels on two corners
• Push-button fold
• 28.5″ wide x 40″ long x 33.3″ high
• Weighs 34.5 lbs

If you’re looking for a little more, this deluxe Pack’ n Play may be just the thing! It’s collapsible and portable but still features plenty of extras befitting or exceeding those of your at-home crib.

It comes with three storage baskets, a detachable baby seat/bouncer, bassinet insert, and a removable changing mat. So, you’re spoilt for comfort and choice!

The toddler/baby play yard offers ample space for older bouncing and sleeping tots, too. I love its built-in soothing panel that calms baby with sounds, lights, and vibrations, though. 

With this little gadget, you can let the crib take some of the soothing workload off your hands. What’s not to love about that?

• The detachable baby seat doubles as a  baby bouncer
• Has three built-in storage baskets for baby essentials
• Built-in 2-speed vibration, soothing sounds, including white noise, and look-light
• Baby bassinet included
• The baby seat/bouncer and changing station are both removable
• Heavier than other travel cribs
• It takes more time to disassemble

Additionally, I think this is one of the best travel cribs for those with two siblings. You can detach the baby seat and let your newborn nap in it separately from the main crib.

So, their big sister or brother can play, bounce, and nap freely in the play yard or bassinet. If either needs a nappy change, simply use the removable change mat wherever suitable.

10. BABYBJORN Travel Crib Light

• Stylish travel crib – available in silver, black, and blue
• Mattress pad
• Click-fold/unfold in a minute
• 44″ long x 24″ wide x 32″ high
• Weighs 13.2 lbs

The Travel Crib Light from BABYBJORN is a stylish, sturdy, and ultra-lightweight portable crib. In fact, its ultra-light weight makes it one of the best travel cribs for babies and toddlers.

This particular set also includes a BABYBJORN travel crib sheet at a fraction of the price. So, this set is definitely added value.

I love that the crib fabrics are Oeko-Tex Standard certified, and you can remove all and wash them. So, you can keep this travel crib squeaky clean, hygienic, and stain-free!

This crib is also available in a range of delightful nautical-inspired shades – great blue, black, and silver.

• This set comes with a fitted sheet
• You can easily find other non-branded sheets that fit its dimensions
• The cribs sturdy, floor-bed design suits older babies and toddlers
• All crib textiles are Oeko-Tex Standard certified free from harmful substances
• The crib has removable fabrics that are all washable
• No newborn bassinet or seat

I think this is the perfect option for those looking for a quality travel crib in which to invest. It’s good-looking, as well as functional, safe, and sturdy. 

So, you can trust it will last the years as they grow from a baby into a toddler. The easy-to-clean, non-toxic fabrics are a plus, as is its light and easy-to-carry design.

Buyer’s Guide – Choosing the Best Travel Crib

A travel crib is an important item to add to your  baby travel checklist . Plus, it’s likely going to be with you for the next few years, so you’ll want to get the best one possible. 

In this guide, I’ll help you to avoid common travel crib buying pitfalls. So, you can make the right choice the first time around and avoid disastrous trips and lengthy product returns. 

Why Do I Need a Travel Crib?

Whether you plan to travel for fun or visit family, you need a light travel crib to take with you. After all, your at-home crib likely weighs as much as you and surely won’t fit into your bag!

Travel cribs are light, easy to fold, and, therefore, the perfect choice for trips. With baby on board, you definitely need one when on the road and staying at unknown locations. 

Travelling can be exhausting, so you won’t want any extra stress or worries when you arrive, either. No, worrying about whether the hotel has or how to set up a complex crib isn’t desirable.

So, do take my tips on how to choose the best travel crib on board! Knowing the types of travel cribs and features to look out for when shopping online will definitely serve you well.  

At What Age Can I Use a Portable Crib?

Usually, travel cribs suit babies from newborn age up to three years old and anywhere in-between. Each travel crib is unique, though. 

Some are designed only for newborns, while others get made to last through to toddler years or beyond. So, you can start using a travel crib at any of these ages, really. 

As long as baby is within the travel crib manufacturer’s recommended age, you’re good. Do follow the age, weight, height, and developmental limits when using a crib, though.

You see, when babies become more mobile, they may no longer be safe in the crib. That’s why the manufacturers test the crib and assign limits accordingly.

Types of Travel Cribs

There are a few different types of travel cribs. Each of these come with certain features. Some even come with unique, added extras. 

So, do consider what each crib has to offer. Ultimately, the best travel crib for you will depend on your individual needs.

Suspended Bassinet Cribs

Suspended baby bassinet cribs are similar to a baby bassinet. They’re oblong, small, and perfect for newborns. These cribs feature a suspended and supported bed and mattress.

Some may even rock like a traditional newborn crib. Yes, they’re perfect for your new bundle! However, they’re not always well suited to bigger, bouncing babies and active tots.

Play yards feature a bigger floor space with a mattress that usually rests on the floor. As such, they offer plenty of support for your energetic, growing toddler.

Generally, this type of crib will last babies from newborn age up to three years old. They might not offer the best comfort for newborns, though, so do check if the crib comes with a bassinet.

Multi-Stage Cribs

Multi-stage cribs provide the best of both worlds with both a play yard and a newborn/baby bassinet. They might even come with storage space, a baby seat, or a changing mat! 

They’re perfect for mums who want a crib that’ll last longer than a few months. As baby grows, you can swap them over from the bassinet to the play yard.

Usually, these travel cribs fit baby at multiple age stages, so they’re great value for money. This is why they’re a popular option amongst parents.

Co-Sleeping Cribs

A co-sleeping crib is a step up from your usual baby travel crib. Instead of just being able to see baby sleeping next to you, you can actually fit the crib to your bedside.

So, you can even reach out to cuddle baby as they sleep. If you’re into co-sleeping, this type of travel crib is a great, safe option.

Unique Travel Cribs

Aside from the cribs mentioned above, there are some other unique cribs. These unique designs vary, and each often something original.

How to Choose the Best Travel Crib for Baby

Follow these top tips to easily select the best travel crib: 

• Decide which travel crib type best suits your needs
• Only choose from the top-rated travel cribs
• Check your baby is within the travel crib manufacturers recommended age group
• Make sure that the weight and dimensions of the crib are suitable for your needs
• Select a crib that folds easily and quickly
• Buy a quality crib that won’t pose a safety risk
• Consider the warranty and returns policy before you buy

Conclusion:

As you can see, there are many fantastic travel cribs out there from which to choose. Finding the best travel crib is vital, but this process doesn’t need to be difficult. 

I hope my buyer’s guide and reviews have helped you to find the perfect one for you!

Check out these other great articles:

• 10 Best Infant Car Seats for 2023
• Best Baby High Chair Reviews and Buyer’s Guide
• 10 Best Baby Bottle Sterilizer Reviews 2023
• 9 Best Baby Playpens Reviews and Buyer’s Guide
• 9 Best Retractable Baby Gates Review and Buyer’s Guide

• All categories
• 4 in 1 Sets
• 3 in 1 Sets
• 2 in 1 Sets
• Sports strollers (buggies)
• Sunshade protection
• Buggy Boards
• Mosquito Nets
• Stroller Clips
• Diaper Bags and Backpacks

Stroller Travel System 3 in 1 Zack, black

Travel system 3 in 1 comfort, grey, travel system 3 in 1 comfort, black, free2play thermo flask kitty, pink, diaper backpack simply purple.

• Child car seats 40-105 cm
• Child car seats 40-125 cm
• Child car seats 40-150 cm
• Child car seats 76-150 cm
• Child car seats 100-150 cm
• Child car seats 125-150 cm
• Child car seats i-Size
• Roller sunshade protection
• Car seat protection
• Other accessories

FreeON car seat Epic, i-Size 40 – 150 cm, black

Car seat modus, i-size 76 do 150 cm, gray, car seat modus, i-size 76 do 150 cm, black, booster comfy, i-size 125 – 150 cm, pink&gray, booster comfy, i-size 125 – 150 cm, blue&gray.

• Wooden high chairs
• High chairs for feeding
• Portable high chairs
• High chair accessories
• Baby swings
• Baby basinet
• Safety accessories
• Baby walkers
• Accessories
• Feeding sets

Plate, pink

Plate, green, teethers bunny, green, teethers bunny, ocker, teethers bunny, pink.

• Nursing pillows
• Cot Mattresses
• Cot bumpers
• Waterproof mattress pads
• Sleeping Bags
• Travel Cots
• Video and Audio baby monitor
• Changing mats
• Children`s armchair
• Educational toys
• Playing mat
• Stuffed Animals & Plushies

Free2Play magnetic maze

Stroller travel system, 4 in 1, zen deluxe, dark grey, travel cot with second layer elephants, square playpen giraffe, square playpen sanda.

• Deck chairs and bathing seats
• Anti-slip mats and other accessories
• Muslin squares

BABY WASH MUSLIN CLOTHS 4/1 BLUE

Baby wash muslin cloths 4/1 pink, cotton muslin nappy squeares 2/1 blue, cotton muslin nappy squeares 2/1 beige, cotton muslin nappy squeares 2/1 pink.

• Diaper Bags

NURSING PILLOW DOTS

Nursing pillow yellow hearts, nursing pillow green magic, nursing pillow gray elephant, nursing pillow happy friends.

• Trampolines
• Balance bikes
• Scooters and Skateboards

Kids backpack Small animals

Tricycle sporty, grey, tricycle sporty, pink.

Travel cot Balloon, gray

64,00 €

FreeON Balloon Portable Crib is an ideal solution to put your baby to sleep anywhere and anytime. You can carry a quickly and easily foldable portable crib in a transport bag…

• Description
• Additional information

FreeON Balloon Portable Crib is an  ideal solution to put your baby to sleep anywhere and anytime .

You can carry a quickly and easily foldable portable crib in a transport bag on holidays, trips, visits, etc. When folded up it takes up very little space and is therefore very convenient.

Unfolding and folding the portable crib is very easy. In just a few steps, you will unfold the folded crib so that you can place the baby in it. At the same time, the safety mechanism ensures that the crib cannot be folded in any way when the child is in it.

Two wheels with brakes  make it easier to reposition the crib to where you need it most .

The crib is also equipped with  a foam mattress with a hard bottom side .

The three sides of the crib are made of  mesh material , which allows you to monitor the child when playing or sleeping and improves air circulation.

On the side of the portable crib, there is an  opening with a zipper , which facilitates the passage of the child into or out of the crib, as it is not necessary to lift it.

On the FreeON Balloon portable crib, you will find  cute children’s motifs  that attract the child’s attention. The  attractive colours of the crib  make it fit nicely in any space.

The crib offers your baby a place to rest or play from birth to a weight of 13.6 kilograms.

The external dimensions of the crib are 125 x 65 x 77 cm.

The dimensions of the crib are: 120 x 60 cm

Properties:

• the ideal solution to put your baby to sleep anywhere and anytime,
• suitable for babies from 0 to 13.6 kg,
• equipped with a foam mattress with a hard bottom side,
• two wheels with brake for easy transport,
• zippered opening
• child monitoring and air circulation mesh,
• cute children’s motifs
• attractive colours.

Related products

Travel cot Safari with second layer, changing surface and toy

Plastic table with chairs Janus, green

Braid nest, pink

Nursing pillow 170 x 35 cm, Clouds

Bedding 5 pcs for Close&Free, Exclusive

Changing mat soft, Love bunny, 50×70 cm

Wedge pillow small, 30x37x1,5-10cm

Decorative pillow, 35×45 cm

• 4 in 1 sets
• 3 in 1 sets
• 2 in 1 sets
• Stroller accessories
• Child car seats from 0 to18 kg
• Child car seats from 0 to 36 kg
• Child car seats from 9 to 25 kg
• Child car seats from 9 to 36 kg
• Child car seats from 15 to 36 kg
• Child car seats from 40 to 105 cm
• Child car seats from 40 to 150 cm
• Child car seats from 76 to 150 cm
• Child car seats from 100 to 150 cm
• Booster car seat
• Car accessories
• Cot mattresses and beddings
• Changing mats and other accessories
• Children’s room furniture
• Baby bathing
• Application form
• Login / Register

Username or email address  *

Password  *

Lost your password? Remember me

No account yet?

Best Travel Cribs (According to TONS of Parents!)

Are you planning a trip with your little one but don’t want to compromise on their sleep routine? 

In this article, we’ve rounded up the best travel cribs on the market that have the most overwhelming amount of recommendations from parents and baby experts.

We’ll cover everything you need to know about them like their best features, pros and cons, feedback from parents and more.

Let’s start with a comparison overview of their features below.

I hope you’ll love the products we recommend! Just a quick note: if you click on a product link below and decide to buy it, we may earn a small commission.

List of Contents

Best Travel Cribs: Feature Comparison Table

This is best viewed on a desktop. Here’s a quick comparison guide on the features of the best travel cribs.

Best Travel Cribs (Features, Pros, Cons and More)

Guava lotus travel crib.

• Weight: 13 lbs/6 kg (including carry bag)
• Dimensions: 45.5″ L x 31.5″ W x 25.5 H

Folded (in Backpack) Length: 24”, Width: 7”, Height: 11”

This is bar none, the best travel crib in the market, according to a LOT and I mean a LOT of parents and even baby experts.

I have seen and heard recommendations about this travel crib over and over again, so it’s pretty hard to ignore it!

This is one of the travel cribs that seemed to have it all – lightweight and portable, non-toxic, comes with its travel bag which checked-in as a carry-on, easy to set up, JPMA-certified , doesn’t have any weight limit, etc.

Not only that, you can use this as a bassinet initially (with a conversion kit) and then as a crib, extending its use!

It’s not a perfect travel crib though as it comes with flaws. Such as you have to buy the mattress sheets separately, it can be tricky to put on the sheets (according to some parents) and it’s expensive.

Overall though, a lot of parents are happy with it and it’s been worth the price.

Check out a more detailed review here of the Guava Lotus Travel Crib.

• Lightweight
• Can be checked in as a carry-on
• Non-toxic bassinet / crib
• Very durable
• Doesn’t come with mattress sheets

Baby Bjorn Travel Crib Light

• Dimensions: 32 x 44 x 24 in/82 x 112 x 64cm
• Folded down in carry bag: 19 x 23.5 x 5.5 in/49 x 60 x 14 cm

This is a close contender to the Lotus Travel crib as it’s also quite popular with parents. 

Plus it has a lot of great features such as having the OEKO-TEX Standard certification, easy to set up, machine-washable, and of course, lightweight and portable, and comes with a carrying case.

It also comes in 3 different colors, which is not offered by its most popular counterpart!

It’s slightly more expensive than the Guava Lotus though and it’s not as plane-friendly, according to most parents.

And it also comes with this weird, narrow top which can make it uncomfortable for your kids to stand and hold on.

Still, it’s a top-notch travel crib that’s easy to use and most importantly, comfortable and safe for your little one.

Check out a comparison review between the Guava Lotus vs Baby Bjorn Travel Crib.

• Can be carried suitcase-style
• Has 3 color options
• More expensive than the Lotus crib
• Narrower crib top
• Tricky to check-in as carry-on

Graco Pack ‘n Play Portable Playard

• Dimensions: 39.5 x 28.25 x 54 inches (LxWxH) 
• Weight: 18.96 lbs/ 8.6 kg

If you want a more affordable travel crib alternative, check out this Graco Playard.

This also has a lot of mentions and recommendations from parents who don’t want to splurge but still want a safe and comfortable sleeping space for their kids.

It has a small storage space for small baby essentials or toys, it has wheels so you can easily move them from room to room.

And it even comes with a carrying case!

It’s not as light as the Guava Lotus and Baby Bjorn though.

And it’s not as seamless and quick to assemble and disassemble as the other 2 travel cribs.

But it’s still portable enough to bring on weekend getaways, car trips, or visits to the grandparents.

• Has a small space
• Includes wheels
• Not as lightweight
• Not as quick to set up

Related Article: Baby Bjorn Travel Crib vs Pack n Play

Bugaboo Stardust Playard

• Weight: 14.8 lbs
• Dimensions: (LxWxH): 25 x 38.8 x 33.5 in

The Bugaboo Stardust Playard is another popular travel crib amongst parents.

This has probably the easiest travel crib to assemble, compared to the others, with its easy 1-second unfold feature.

You literally just snap it open and boom, just add in the mattress and it’s ready for your baby! 

It’s also easy to fold and disassemble. It’ll take only a few minutes and 3 easy steps and it will fold flat and nice and easy!

It’s just the perfect size to put in the trunk but it can be hard to find a large luggage for it, so you can check it in with you on flights.

Nevertheless, it’s lightweight, it comes with a zip-in bassinet and a carry bag, so you can’t go wrong with choosing the Bugaboo Stardust Playard!

• Super easy to set up and fold
• Comes with a zip-in bassinet
• Includes carry bag

Chicco Alfa Lite® Lightweight Travel Playard

• Weight: 12.5 lbs/ 5.7 kg
• Dimensions: 43 x 29 x 25 inches (LxWxH)

The Chicco Alfa Lite® Lightweight Travel Playard is also a perfect solution for parents who love to travel and explore. 

It’s super easy to set up and fold down, you can literally do it in seconds!

Plus, it comes with a zippered carry bag, so you can easily store it when not in use.

The Chicco Alfa Lite has a zip-open side panel, which provides easy access for younger babies or toddlers to enter and exit the playard. 

It’s also a GREENGUARD Gold-certified playard, which means it has low chemical emissions, making it non-toxic for your baby. 

You can also chuck in the entire crib fabric in the washing machine, making cleaning a breeze!

It can be tricky to bring on flights as it’s quite big to fit in a luggage.

But overall, parents love how lightweight, convenient, and easy to assemble the Chicco Alfa Lite is, not to mention, it’s very affordable!

• Not plane-friendly

How To Choose the Best Travel Cribs

Here’s what you should consider when choosing the best travel crib :

• Consider the weight and size

Look for cribs that are easy to carry and fit in your trunk or luggage. Or ideally, look for something that can be checked in as a carry-on!

• Check the setup process

You want a travel crib that’s easy to set up, preferably with no tools required. Check for user reviews that mention the setup process and see if it’s something that would work for you.

• Look for safety features

Make sure the crib meets safety standards and has features like safety certifications, sturdy frames, secure locks, and breathable materials.

• Check the mattress

Look for a travel crib with a flat and safe mattress. Ideally, it should come with a mattress sheet. Some cribs come with an additional cushion, while others have a built-in mattress.

• Consider the versatility 

Some travel cribs can double as a playpen or changing station, so consider your needs when choosing a crib.

Travel cribs can range in price, so consider your budget when choosing one. But remember, safety and comfort should always come first.

• Read reviews

Look for reviews from other parents who have used the travel cribs you’re considering. They can offer valuable insights into the pros and cons of each crib.

Best Travel Cribs: Takeaway

And there you have it – the best travel cribs and playards on the market! 

Whether you’re planning a road trip or flying overseas, these cribs and playards will ensure your little one has a comfortable and safe place to sleep while away from home. Happy travels! 🙂

If you find this “best travel cribs” article helpful, then make sure to check out these guides on the:

• Travel Crib vs Pack N Play
• Baby Bjorn Travel Crib vs Lotus
• Best Crib Alternatives For Small Spaces
• 6 Safer DockATot Alternatives (That’ll Give You More Bang For Your Buck!)
• Recent Posts

• Dinosaur-Themed Birthday Party Ideas and Inspiration -
• Dinosaur Birthday Invitation Printables -
• Mermaid Themed Kids Birthday Party Ideas (Blingy and Affordable!) -

Every product was carefully curated by an Esquire editor. We may earn a commission from these links.

7 Best Travel Cribs That'll Keep the Kids Well-Rested On the Go

A good setup is a lifesaver when you’re away from home.

This is all to say, when we travel out to visit the in-laws in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, my son will doubtlessly finagle his way into our guestroom bed, and our daughter requires the strongest travel crib known to man. Surprise, surprise, it ain’t cheap. At $300 the UPPAbaby Remi Portable Playard is a splurge for us, but it’s worth it. It’s super sturdy—overbuilt even, as if one were planning to take it out to sea. And that makes it perfect for our needs. It packs down to an easily portable size and even though it's a bit heavy, as I like to remind my wife, that’s why I lift the weights . (The price reminds me why I buy gym equipment on a discount .)

Best Overall Travel Crib

Uppababy remi portable playard.

A Very Close Runner Up

Maxi-cosi swift lightweight portable play yard.

Best Travel Crib for Flying

Guava family lotus travel crib.

The merits of a good travel crib are pretty straight forward. First and foremost, the kid sleeps well, which makes all of our days a whole lot more rosy come the morning. A well-rested toddler is worth its weight in gold. A sleepy, crabby toddler storming around the living room demanding everything that comes in contact with her person be the color purple, well, that will make your sweet, snowy Christmas in Colorado ski country significantly less merry. Good sleep , after all, is the foundation of a good life, and Esquire has a whole section on Adult Sleep .

Travel cribs come in all shapes, sizes, and prices for when your tot needs to be contained on the go. Here are a few of the best I've tried from all across the board.

Besides the fact that this thing feels nearly indestructible, what I really appreciated about the UPPAbaby was how easy it was to piece together. I’m terrible at following instructions—blame it on the writerly temperament. So, being able to simply pull this crib from its box and snap a few things into place using mostly intuition was a godsend. It’s easy to break down too, and folds neatly in upon itself. This crib is just really well designed overall. Edges are padded and zippers are hidden as well, to alleviate the threat of bumps and scratches.

That said, his crib isn’t easy on the wallet, but few things of quality ever are. It’s also 22.5 pounds—heavier than some competitors, but not prohibitively so. The weight translates to durability though. We’ve had this crib for quite some time and it’s still going strong. Which is good, because Destructo requires every ounce of its might.

This model easily could have been chosen as best overall. It was nearly a pick’em with the UPPAbaby. It lost a few mph off its fastball because the ease of setup wasn’t quite as simple as the competition, but we are really splitting hairs here. The mattress was extra cozy and all abrasive edges are covered up too. It’s also extra sturdy—it barely budges when you rock it and it feels like you could bounce a bowling ball off the mattress and nothing would break.

This crib also has a detachable bassinet feature. For really little guys you can raise the mattress up for easier access. It’s a versatile feature that parents will appreciate. Like the UPPAbaby this crib is a teence on the chubby side at 18 pounds, but that’s a worthy sacrifice when you take into account this product’s significant advantages.

This crib would have scored well on any level, but I decided it’s best suited for flying accolades because of its portability. Flying with little kids is tough enough as is, the last thing you want to be concerning yourself with is lugging an unwieldy crib around the airport while your toddler disappears around the bend and out of sight on the baggage carousel. To that end, the Lotus is just about right. It weighs just 15 pounds, folds down easily to half its size, and has its own easy-to-handle travel bag. But despite its feathery weight, its aluminum frame is sturdy enough to withstand both travel and ornery munchkins. The only issue I found with this one is that the mattress is a little slim, but nothing’s perfect.

KidCo PeaPod Plus Travel Tent

If you like to travel light the KidCo Peapod Plus is the crib for you. Of all the cribs I saw, this one outpunched its weight the most—quite literally, it clocks in at a scant 3.5 pounds. This crib stows neatly in its own bag that comes with straps for easy carrying. Setup was a breeze too. And a very cool feature, the tent-like design makes it equally adept at indoor or outdoor sleeping. This is the crib you want if you like to camp. I wouldn’t describe the construction as rigid, but it’s safe enough for an older child. One major drawback for this model is that it has a slippery fabric at the bottom of the crib that isn’t suitable for infants.

BabyBjörn Travel Crib Light

One of the tricks I’ve picked up in my years of dad’ing is to keep everything as simple as possible. All your best laid plans are bound to go to hell anyway, but subtracting moving parts from the equation early on will at least make it a smooth ride down.

For that reason, I really like the Travel Crib Light from Baby Bjorn. It folds and unfolds so easily you could almost do it with one hand, a feat aided by its 13-pound weight. The mattress is firm but comfortable as well. The only downside here is that the Baby Bjorn is a bit small and won’t grow with your kids. But if keeping headaches to a minimum is of paramount concern to you (as it is to me) this crib is a good pick.

Munchkin Brica Travel Pod

This one is less a travel crib than sort of a little soft suitcase you can pop your baby in from time to time. It’s great for travel, camping, or a picnic in the park—the definition of no muss no fuss. It’s meant for newborns who are still largely immobile (not pushing up or rolling over yet). The Brica lies flat on the ground and is effectively a travel-size bassinet. It’s an excellent option for when your newborn is driving you batty and you absolutely positively need to get out of the house.

Baby Joy Travel Crib 2-in-1 Playpen

The Baby Joy gets high marks for sturdiness, ease of use, soft edges, and hidden zippers. It’s a tad too big to fit in an overhead bin though, so we wouldn’t recommend it for flying. However if you’re packing the kids in the SUV or minivan and hitting the highway, this should be a good fit, particularly at a price point (right around $100) that should fit into most budgets. The mattress wasn’t the most plush of the cribs we looked at, but for a night or two we don’t think you’ll hear too much complaining.

@media(max-width: 73.75rem){.css-1ktbcds:before{margin-right:0.4375rem;color:#FF3A30;content:'_';display:inline-block;}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-1ktbcds:before{margin-right:0.5625rem;color:#FF3A30;content:'_';display:inline-block;}} What We're Buying

8 Best Smokers for Newbies and Pitmasters Alike

12 Best Outdoor Sectionals for Open-Air Lounging

8 Best 4K TVs

Hoka vs. Brooks: Which Is Better?

39 Coolest Camping Gadgets of 2024

Best High Chairs 2024

Best Convertible Cribs 2024

6 Best iPhone Earbuds 2024

81 Gifts Your Husband Will Absolutely Love

40 Best Father’s Day Gifts for Dad

The Dopp Kit That Will Last the Rest of My Life

• Pregnancy Weeks
• Nursery Design
• Toddler Sleep
• White Noise

Travel Crib Tips for Safe Sleep Away From Home

On This Page

What is a travel crib, are travel cribs safe, what should i look for when buying a travel crib, is it okay to buy a used travel crib, how can i help my baby sleep in a travel crib, can you travel with snoo.

Whether you’re heading to a long-awaited vacation, visiting family, or you simply need an extra sleep space in your home, travel cribs are a must-have item for many parents. But before you buy the trendiest travel crib—or borrow a nearly-ancient play yard—you’ll want to make sure it’s as safe and functional as it can be. Here’s what parents should look for when buying a travel crib.

A travel crib is another name for a portable crib. Travel cribs are compact, lightweight, and especially designed for easy transport. Sometimes “play yard” and “travel crib” are used interchangeably, but they’re not always the same. For example, play yards tend to feature mesh sides or another non-rigid construction. While travel cribs can mimic that, some portable cribs are wood and foldable. Generally, travel cribs and play yards can be used from birth to age 3.

Yes. Fortunately, the safety standards for travel cribs were upgraded over 10 years ago, so models currently sold in America have passed rigorous stability, entrapment, and structural integrity tests. (The same is true for play yards .) But for even more peace of mind, I recommend looking for travel cribs or play yards with a JPMA (Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association) certification, which means they are checked annually to prove they meet or exceed all safety standards for infant products. Of course, it’s imperative to use travel cribs safely , which means always…

Place your baby on the back. All babies under a year old should be put on their back for all naps and night sleep.

Make sure the travel crib is empty. Keep the travel crib free of all loose bedding , pillows, loungers, and stuffed toys.

Use the proper mattress. Only use the play yard mattress provided by the manufacturer—and never double up or add a soft topper. Remember, your baby’s mattress needs to be firm, whether they’re snoozing in a full-size crib, a bassinet, or a travel crib!

Only use a well-fitted sheet. Portable crib fitted sheets need to be tucked under the mattress, so the sheet can’t snap up and become a suffocation risk.

Keep the sides up: Never leave a baby in a mesh play yard with the side lowered or your little one could get trapped between the side and the floorboard.

Remove the changing table. If your play yard features a raised changing table, remove it when your child is in the play yard so they don’t risk entrapment .

Know when to retire your travel crib. Discontinue using the play yard or travel crib when your little one can easily climb out.

While safety, of course, is number one, there are other points to consider when buying a travel crib, such as:

Sturdiness: If you’re able, test out the travel crib before buying. You’ll want to feel first-hand how sturdy it is. Does it feel a bit wobbly when you press on the top? If so, choose another.

Functionality: Buying a play yard for an infant? Look for one with a bassinet feature where you detach the mattress from the bottom and safely raise it up so you can more easily lift your baby in and out of the crib. At the same time, you’ll want to make sure your portable crib has enough space for a toddler to rest and play comfortably when it’s time to lower the mattress.

Size and weight: For many, the point of a portable crib is to be able to travel with it, so be sure it’s easy to fold and carry. If you’re a frequent flier, you also want a travel crib that’s small enough to meet airline size requirements— and light enough to lug through the airport!

Weight limit: While travel cribs with mattresses at floor-level might not have a weight limit, most other travel cribs/play yards have a recommended weight max of around 25 to 30 pounds. Either way, it’s always smart to double check.

Ease of use: The last thing you want to do when you arrive at your destination with a cranky baby is take 10 minutes to assemble the travel crib! For example, look for play yards that unfold at the push of a button…and lock into place easily.

Maintenance: Many portable cribs feature removable, machine-washable fabric that can be a gamechanger when dealing with diaper blowouts and other unexpected oopsies.

While it may be tempting to borrow a travel crib or a play yard—or buy one used—proceed with caution. Nearly two million play yards have been recalled before new federal safety standards were put into place in 2013, so anything older could be dangerous. Plus, it wasn’t until 2022 that replacement mattresses used in play yards and portable cribs were required to meet the same safety requirements as the original mattress! Before then, babies were at risk for getting trapped and suffocating in a gap between the mattress and the side of the play yard.

As a pediatrician, I lean toward buying new so you know for-sure your travel yard isn’t missing any parts and meets the most recent safety standards. But I also know that buying new can be hard for some families. So, if you are buying a secondhand travel crib or are borrowing one, keep the following in mind:

Look for important numbers. If the travel crib is missing a label that includes the manufacturing date (or lot code) and manufacturer’s contact info, don’t buy it .

Check for recalls. Found the label with all the travel crib’s manufacturing info? Great. Now check to see if it’s been recalled .

Inspect for damage. Make sure the mesh of the play yard and the top rails are free of tears, holes, or loose threads . Check for missing or loose parts and ensure the travel crib is fitted with the manufacturer’s original mattress.

If you know ahead of time that your baby will be snoozing in a play yard or travel crib during a trip, arrange to have them sleep in one at home first. The more familiarity the better! Speaking of familiarity, recreating your baby’s sleep surroundings is key, too. That means, dim the lights about 30 minutes before night-night, play the same white noise your little one loves, and wrap your baby in the same sleep sack or swaddle they’re used to. If your baby has been sleeping in SNOO and swaddled in a SNOO Sack , use SNOObie or SNOObear to recreate SNOO’s white noise—and use the Sleepea 5-Second Swaddle in the travel crib. Sleepea is the exact same expert design as the award-winning SNOO Sack, minus the “wings” that secure SNOO sleepers into the bassinet.

If your baby has been blissfully sleeping in SNOO , you may be wondering if SNOO is portable. While SNOO is not a travel crib, many SNOO users do travel with their beloved bassinet! If you’re considering traveling with SNOO, know that, when packed and reboxed , your SNOO will take up about 8 cubic feet in your trunk. At the same time, SNOO can likely be checked as oversized luggage on your flight. (Call ahead!) But if packing and traveling with SNOO is impossible, don’t worry! Babies tend to sleep okay on trips without their SNOO…as long as:

Your stay is under one week.

Your baby has slept well in SNOO for one to two months.

You continue to swaddle your baby .

You use a strong white noise machine while away.

More on Baby Travel:

• How to Help Children With Jet Lag
• Dr. Harvey Karp on Stress-Free Flying With a Baby
• Sleep Tips for Holiday Travel
• Help Your Baby Sleep in Any Hotel Room
• Travel Toys to Occupy Tots on the Go
• How to Handle Travel Nightmares When Flying With Kids
• United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC): Non-Full-Size Baby Cribs Business Guidance & Small Entity Compliance Guide
• CPSC: Play Yards Business Guidance & Small Entity Compliance Guide
• American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP): Playpen Safety
• Kids in Danger: Product Hazards – Play Yards
• Safety Standard for Crib Mattresses. Federal Register . February 2022
• Consumer Reports: Is It Safe to Buy a Used Car Seat, Stroller, or Crib for Your Baby?

About Dr. Harvey Karp

Dr. Harvey Karp, one of America’s most trusted pediatricians, is the founder of Happiest Baby and the inventor of the groundbreaking SNOO Smart Sleeper. After years of treating patients in Los Angeles, Dr. Karp vaulted to global prominence with the release of the bestselling Happiest Baby on the Block and Happiest Toddler on the Block . His celebrated books and videos have since become standard pediatric practice, translated into more than 20 languages and have helped millions of parents. Dr. Karp’s landmark methods, including the 5 S’s for soothing babies, guide parents to understand and nurture their children and relieve stressful issues, like new-parent exhaustion, infant crying, and toddler tantrums.

View more posts tagged, sleep

Have questions about a Happiest Baby product? Our consultants would be happy to help! Submit your questions here.

Disclaimer: The information on our site is NOT medical advice for any specific person or condition. It is only meant as general information. If you have any medical questions and concerns about your child or yourself, please contact your health provider.

You may also like

In the 48 contiguous United States, customers will be charged $59.50 + tax for the shipment of SNOO back to Happiest Baby. Added charges will apply for shipping to and from Alaska and Hawaii.

* An additional $185 shipping fee will be applied to SNOO purchases sent to Hawaii and Alaska.

Protect Your Trip »

The 4 best travel cribs for babies and toddlers in 2024.

Finalize your decision with one of these four travel cribs.

The Best Travel Cribs

Courtesy of Guava Family

The Guava Lotus Travel Crib is so compact, you can wear it like a backpack.

There are an increasing number of travel cribs on the market these days, and nearly all of them are touted to have a lightweight design and an easy setup, which makes it overwhelming to choose the right one for your pint-sized travel partner.

Taking into consideration key factors like safety, comfort and convenience for travel – as well as recent consumer reviews, expert recommendations and our own experiences – we've chosen the best travel cribs for babies and toddlers.

Best Overall: Guava Lotus Travel Crib

• Jump to features and traveler insights ↓

Best Lightweight: BabyBjörn Travel Crib Light

• Best Budget: Graco Pack 'n Play On the Go Playard

Best for Toddlers: hiccapop Inflatable Toddler Travel Bed

Note: All travel crib dimensions are listed in order of length by width by height.

Highlights:

• Especially convenient for air travel, the Guava Lotus Travel Crib can be worn like a backpack in an included carrying case with padded straps, then checked as a bag.
• The Guava Lotus is GreenGuard Gold Certified , which means its emission levels are even lower (and better) than industry standards.
• It doubles as a bassinet and playard featuring a zippered door for easy access to your baby.

Setup: The Guava Lotus is easy to set up. The sturdy aluminum frame's hinges swiftly snap in place with the touch of a button. Once the frame is assembled, a fabric cover with mesh sides can be zipped on before you place the included waterproof mattress with a sheet (which is not included) inside. Then the mattress is secured to the frame via a buckle on each corner. When it's time to take the crib down, you don't have to disassemble the entire thing – another reason to love this option.

YouTube tutorial: Guava Lotus Setup | Guava Lotus Teardown

Maintenance: The mattress is easy to wipe down, and the crib's fabric portion is machine-washable.

"I've taken this crib all across the world over the past three years, and it still looks as good as new. We initially bought this crib because we were wary of using hotel cribs during COVID. We quickly fell in love with it and still bring it on every trip we take. Additionally, we purchased the optional sun shade, which came in handy on beach trips in our daughter's infant days." – Tamiz Ahmed , co-founder of Poppylist

Courtesy of BabyBjörn

• If you're specifically looking for something lightweight, meet your match: The BabyBjörn Travel Crib Light is one of the lightest travel cribs on the market.
• The crib comes with a mattress and carrying bag.
• All materials meet OEKO TEX Standard 100, Class 1 standards for baby products – meaning the crib permeates low levels of chemicals and is also free from as many as 350 harmful chemicals, making it safe for a baby's skin and curious mouth.

Setup: The frame of the BabyBjörn Travel Crib Light is assembled in one swift motion. Next, the mattress is placed inside and secured to the crib's legs. When it's time to put the crib away, the mattress and crib frame easily fold down.

YouTube tutorial: BabyBjörn Travel Crib Setup | BabyBjörn Travel Crib Teardown – Option 1 | BabyBjörn Travel Crib Teardown – Option 2

Maintenance: The mattress can be wiped down with a damp cloth, and both the mattress cover (which can be zipped off) and the other fabric on the crib are machine-washable.

Best Budget: Graco Pack 'n Play on the Go Playard with Bassinet

Courtesy of Graco

• This crib comes with a full-size bassinet insert that folds with the playard when it's time to transport or put away the crib.
• The crib also has a toy bar with soft toys to amuse your curious baby.
• A carry case is included with this crib.

Setup: First, hit the crib's push buttons to assemble the frame. Once the four rails are locked, you can push the crib floor down before placing the mattress inside. Finally, secure the mattress straps (on the bottom) to the playard. To disassemble, you'll reverse the process almost exactly: Unfasten the mattress straps, remove the mattress, pull the tab at the bottom of the crib and – using the push buttons – fold the crib down.

YouTube tutorial: Graco On the Go Playard Setup and Teardown

Maintenance: The crib can be wiped down with mild soap and water, while the carry bag is machine-washable.

" The Graco Pack n Play On the Go Playard offers all the bells and whistles of other travel cribs, but at a far more affordable price ($80 vs. $150-$300). In particular, the removable bassinet is a game-changer during those early weeks of parenthood. My family used it during our first two weeks home with our daughter, and I appreciated that it provided a safe sleep space but didn't require me to bend over and stress my sore body. After that, we moved it to my mom's house and, even though it's super easy to fold and store, she keeps it out because it doesn't take up a lot of space." – Leah Rocketto , Associate Commerce Director at What to Expect

Courtesy of hiccapop

• Long and tall bumpers ensure your little one won't roll off the bed.
• It inflates with an included electric pump and rolls up into an included carry bag.
• The bed comes with a lifetime satisfaction guarantee and top-notch customer service.

Setup: The setup for this toddler travel bed is similar to that of a traditional air mattress – simply use the included electric pump to inflate the bed frame with rails and a mattress pad.

YouTube tutorial: hiccapop Inflatable Toddler Travel Bed Setup and Teardown

Maintenance: The hiccapop Inflatable Toddler Travel bed can be wiped down with soap and water.

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks Newsletter

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Sign up to receive the latest updates from U.S News & World Report and our trusted partners and sponsors. By clicking submit, you are agreeing to our Terms and Conditions & Privacy Policy .

Guava Lotus vs. Baby Björn

When choosing the best travel crib to purchase, the final decision for many buyers often comes down to the Guava Lotus Travel Crib and BabyBjörn Travel Crib Light since they're so similar.

If you're undecided between the two, see which crib wins in the following categories:

Your decision may ultimately come down to the type of traveler you are. If you frequently travel (especially by plane), the Guava Lotus is the best choice.

Guava Lotus vs. Newton Travel Crib

Many people also compare the Guava Lotus with the Newton Travel Crib, a newcomer to the travel crib market. The Newton Travel Crib mimics the Guava Lotus almost exactly, but here are some key differentiators (and the reasons we ultimately recommend the Guava Lotus instead):

• Price: At $299, the Newton Travel Crib is about $50 more than the Guava Lotus.
• Weight: The Newton Travel Crib is also 2 pounds heavier than its predecessor, weighing in at 17 pounds.
• Setup: While the Newton Travel Crib is easy to set up, many buyers say that disassembly is difficult.

Travel Crib Accessories

When purchasing a travel crib, think about the other essentials your baby will need for restful naps and nights in your destination – especially since they'll be in an unfamiliar environment. These might include:

Room-darkening curtains: If your little one is accustomed to sleeping in a pitch-black room at home, you'll want to ensure your hotel room or vacation rental bedroom is as dark as possible. There are a few ways to do this:

• Use foil and duct tape:  It won't look pretty, but covering the windows with foil and duct tape is a cost-effective option.
• Invest in a Slumberpod:  The highly rated  SlumberPod  ($180) is essentially a tent that goes over the travel crib, ensuring total darkness for a peaceful night's rest. For a cheaper alternative, check out the  Dofilachy Blackout Cover  on Amazon.
• Buy portable blackout curtains:  Purchase a set of curtains that won't take up too much space in your luggage. These  portable blackout curtains from Amazon Basics  are highly rated and come with a storage bag.

White noise machine: Even if you already have a white noise machine you plan to pack, you might consider buying an additional, more portable option to use in tandem with it – especially if you'll be in a small space with older siblings who stay up later. U.S. News editors say they've had good experience with both the Yogasleep Hushh Portable Sound Machine (also useful for stroller rides) and this option by Magicteam .

Portable fan:  A small battery- or USB-powered fan is a useful accessory when traveling with little ones – you can attach it to the travel stroller and car seat on hot days and secure it to the travel crib on warm nights. There are a variety of affordable, well-rated stroller fans on Amazon, including this adjustable option by AMACOOL .

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Amanda Norcross is a family travel expert who regularly travels with her toddler. Shortly after she found out she was pregnant, she excitedly bought the Guava Lotus Bassinet Kit & Travel Crib and – despite its hefty price tag – never regretted it once.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Diaper Bag Backpacks
• How to Get Your Child a Passport
• The Best Family Vacations in the U.S.
• The Best Spring Break Family Destinations
• The Best Family Travel Insurance

Top All-Inclusive Family Resorts

Tags: Travel , Travel Gear , Family Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

The best scotland tours.

Marisa Méndez June 13, 2024

Flight Canceled or Delayed? What to Do

Amanda Norcross June 13, 2024

How to Renew a Passport Online

The Best Small Group Tours of Italy

John Rodwan June 12, 2024

Crystal Symphony Review

Jill Schildhouse June 12, 2024

Fall in New England

Amanda Norcross June 11, 2024

Fun Things to Do in New Mexico

Alissa Grisler and Ashley M. Biggers June 11, 2024

Travel During Hurricane Season

Top Orlando Theme Parks

Lyn Mettler and Timothy J. Forster June 11, 2024

The Best Places to Go for July Fourth

Sharael Kolberg June 10, 2024

Best Travel Bed For Baby, Their Gear & How To Get Them To Sleep On The Road

O h, the joy of traveling with little ones! As every parent knows, going on road trips with a baby or toddler can be an adventure on its own. Making sure that your tiny traveler gets a good night sleep in a safe place is essential. Enter the travel crib, the unsung hero of family vacations. 

Whether you’re a first-time mom or a seasoned pro, finding the best travel bed for baby can make your journey smoother and, altogether, more enjoyable. 

In this guide, we’ll cover everything from the top travel crib options to tips on getting your little one to sleep on vacation. So, put baby down for a nap, grab a cup of coffee, and take good notes.

NO TIME TO ENJOY THIS ARTICLE NOW? PIN IT OR BOOKMARK FOR LATER!

Guava Lotus Travel Crib

The Guava Lotus Travel Crib is a top choice for many parents, and it’s easy to see why. With its lightweight design and easy setup, this travel crib is perfect for road trips. The compact size and included travel bag make it a breeze to transport. Plus, the mesh sides provide a secure place for your little one to sleep while you keep an eye on them. The Guava Lotus Travel Crib is especially great for tall toddlers, offering ample space without compromising on safety. And for those who are curious, it supports a decent weight limit that can accommodate a 1-year-old or even an older kid.

Finally, a safe and sturdy crib that doesn’t require an engineering degree! ©Amazon

BabyBjörn Travel Crib Light

Another favorite among parents is the BabyBjörn Travel Crib Light . This crib is known for its high-quality materials and ease of use. The lightweight design makes it easy to carry, and the included travel bag ensures you can take it anywhere. It’s a great option for those who prioritize quick and easy assembly and want to provide a safe sleep space for newborns and older babies. The soft, breathable mesh sides and sturdy construction make this crib a reliable choice for any adventure, whether camping in Yosemite or lounging in Cancun . Plus, the waterproof mattress makes for super easy cleanup. (Something you don’t even know you need until you do… usually at 3 am.)

BabyBjörn Travel Crib Light times two! © Amazon

Graco Pack ‘n Play

The Graco Pack ‘n Play is a versatile option that has been a game-changer for many families. With its compact size and multifunctional design, this travel crib can double as a play yard, giving your little one a lot of space to play and sleep. The easy setup and included mattress pad ensure your munchkin has a comfortable and safe sleep space. The Graco Pack ‘n Play is also a great deal, offering excellent value for its price. Want one that will take baby from newborn through the toddler years? Upgrade to The Graco Pack ‘n Play Change and Carry Playard , which even comes with a bassinet attachment for the younger ones and is recognized as one of the best toddler travel beds by many parents.

Because baby’s first trip shouldn’t feel like a scene from a comedy sketch. Graco Travel Crib: the hero of family vacations. © Amazon

Maxi-Cosi Swift

The Maxi-Cosi Swift is a stylish and functional travel cot that’s perfect for families on the go. Its lightweight design and easy assembly make it a breeze to set up and take down. The compact size and included carrying case make it ideal for travel, whether staying in a hotel room or visiting family. The Maxi-Cosi Swift is a great option for parents looking for a portable crib that doesn’t compromise on comfort or safety.

Maxi Cosi Crib: Folds up smaller than your hopes of getting a hotel upgrade. #PortableParenting ©Amazon

Baby Joy Travel Crib

The Baby Joy Travel Crib is a hidden gem for parents looking for an easy-to-assemble and compact travel crib. Its smart design includes breathable mesh sides and a sturdy frame, ensuring your little guy or gal sleeps soundly. The included travel bag and lightweight design make it a breeze to carry around.

Reading the Baby Joy Travel Crib manual: A crash course in baby bed origami. #ParentingPuzzles ©Amazon

Hiccapop Inflatable Toddler Travel Bed

For parents with older kids, the Hiccapop Inflatable Toddler Travel Bed is a fantastic option. This portable bed is easy to inflate and comes with side bumpers to keep your little one secure. The carrying case and shoulder strap make it easy to transport, and the included electric pump makes for a quick and hassle-free setup. It’s such a great option for families looking for a portable bed that provides comfort and security for young children. Plus, the inflatable mattress offers a cozy and familiar sleeping surface.

Hiccapop Travel Bed: So comfy, even the dachshund wants a turn! Sorry buddy, it’s for human use only. ©Amazon

Shrunks Toddler Travel Bed

The Shrunks Toddler Travel Bed is another inflatable bed that parents rave about. Its compact design and lightweight construction make it ideal for travel. The bed comes with an included travel bag, making it easy to pack in a large suitcase. The side bumpers make a secure place for a mattress pad or nap mat to rest (not included). This bed is perfect for those long flights and late-night hotel room arrivals with little kids where a traditional crib might not be available. It’s also a perfect match for parents with an old son or daughter who has outgrown a traditional travel crib.

Because every parent knows that “sleeping like a baby” should apply to everyone in the house. Thanks, Shrunks! ©Amazon

Other Essential Travel Baby Gear

Don’t forget about travel strollers, travel high chairs, and baby carriers! 

Finding the best travel crib for your family can make all the difference on your next road trip or vacation.

Travel Strollers

On the go, having a lightweight, foldable stroller can be a game-changer. Many travel strollers are designed to fit in overhead compartments on planes, making them incredibly convenient for travel. 

When my babies were big enough, my favorite for travel was a simple umbrella stroller, like the Cosco Umbrella Stroller with Canopy . Look for strollers with a compact design and easy maneuverability to make your trips smoother.

DON’T MISS! Essential Safety Gadgets for Family Travel

Travel High Chairs

Another travel essential we recommend is a portable high chair like the Summer Infant Pop ‘n Sit , which can be incredibly handy when traveling with a baby. Look for high chairs that are easy to fold and lightweight. Additionally, spending a little bit more on the best travel gear for your baby, like Bibsters , best-selling disposable bibs that catch crumbs, can make feeding times cleaner and more efficient.

Dream team: Daddy + Baby = Perfect Nap Equation. ©Shutterstock

Travel Baby Carriers

Finally, a good baby carrier can be a sweet, snuggly way to bring baby everywhere the family goes. I loved carrying my little guys around in our trusty Baby Bjorn . Though our editor preferred the Beco Baby Carrier with its fold-away infant head support. Besides being convenient, it’s also like giving a baby hugs all day long. And who doesn’t love that?

Tips for Getting Little Ones to Sleep on Vacation

If we haven’t said it already, traveling with little ones can be challenging, especially when getting them to sleep in a new place. Here are some tips to help your child have sweet dreams while on vacation:

Sleeping like a boss: this baby’s got happiness on lock. ©Shutterstock

Stick to a Routine

Try to maintain baby’s usual sleep routine as much as possible. This includes keeping nap times and bedtime consistent with what they’re used to at home. This was not fun at Club Med, but my husband and I alternated nap days and slept with the baby when it was our turn.

Bring Familiar Items

Pack baby’s favorite blanket, stuffed animal, or crib sheet. Having familiar items can help your baby feel more at ease in a new place.

Use White Noise

A white noise machine can be a lifesaver when trying to get your child to sleep in a noisy hotel room or unfamiliar place.

Keep it Dark

Use blackout curtains or a sleep mask (for older kids!) to keep the room dark, which will help your child fall asleep and stay asleep longer.

Stay Calm and Patient

Traveling can be overwhelming for little ones, and it might take them a bit longer to settle down. Stay calm and patient, and give them the comfort they need.

Who can resist the cuteness overload of a chubby baby on a block munching spree? Not me! ©Unsplash Colin Maynard

Finding the best travel crib for your family can make all the difference on your next road trip or vacation. If your child has a safe and comfortable place to sleep, you can also sleep better. Remember to bring along familiar items, stick to routines, and create a cozy sleep environment to help your little one get the rest they need. With the right gear and a little preparation, you can enjoy stress-free travels and make lasting memories with your family. Safe travels and sweet dreams!

IF YOU ENJOYED THIS ARTICLE, PLEASE CONSIDER PINNING IT OR SHARING IT!

This article may contain affiliate links that Microsoft and/or the publisher may receive a commission from if you buy a product or service through those links.

Passport to Love

• Share full article

Unconventional Sex Let Anglerfish Conquer the Deep Ocean

During a chaotic period some 50 million years ago, the strange deep-sea creatures left the ocean bottom and thrived by clamping onto their mates.

A female anglerfish, with a bioluminescent lure, in waters off Hawaii. Credit... Doug Perrine/Alamy

Supported by

By William J. Broad

• May 30, 2024

How did the ghoulish creatures known as anglerfish pull off the evolutionary feat that let them essentially take over the ocean’s sunless depths?

It took peculiar sex — extremely peculiar sex.

Scientists at Yale University have discovered that a burst of anglerfish diversification began some 50 million years ago as the ancestral line developed a bizarre strategy to ensure successful reproduction in the dark wilderness.

To mate, tiny males would clamp with sharp teeth onto the bellies of much larger females. Some males would let go after mating while others would permanently fuse into the females. The males that stayed attached became permanent organs for sperm production.

“We found that a cascade of traits, including those required for sexual parasitism, allowed anglerfishes to invade the deep sea,” Chase D. Brownstein , a graduate student in the ecology and evolutionary biology department at Yale who was the study’s lead author, said in a news release.

Today, there are more than 300 species of anglerfish, which makes them the most varied family of vertebrates in the ocean’s lightless zone. The region starts about 1,000 feet down — just beneath the photic zone, which gets enough sunlight to support photosynthesis and most of the sea’s plants — and descends for miles. The team’s study was published last week in the journal Current Biology.

Finding a mate in the deep sea can be extremely difficult because of the environment’s incomprehensibly vast size. By some estimates, the dark zone amounts to more than 97 percent of the planetary space inhabited by living things, mainly because the ocean plunges to a maximum depth of nearly seven miles. In contrast, land habitats make up less than 1 percent of the planet’s biosphere because the band of life is so narrow, making its volume quite small.

The anglerfish’s bizarre mating routine is seen as counteracting the otherwise slim chances of finding a mate in the world’s largest ecosystem. It is the only known vertebrate that employs sexual parasitism, and that gave it an evolutionary edge.

Over time, the male can physically fuse with the female, connecting to her skin and bloodstream. Eventually, he loses his eyes and all internal organs except for his testes. A female can carry several males on her body.

The Yale team documented how immune systems that attack foreign threats changed over time so the female hosts would not reject the parasitic males.

Anglerfish get their name from how females use rodlike appendages with glowing tips to lure prey into their needlelike teeth. They’re fish that fish . Their mouths are so large and their bodies so flexible that they can swallow prey up to twice their size.

The Yale team used fossils and genetic data from more than 100 living anglerfish species to determine that the burst of diversification came during a major global heat spike between 50 million and 35 million years ago. The world’s oceans were thrown into turmoil, and the bottom-walking ancestors of the anglerfish began to explore the wider oceanic world.

“It happened in the blink of an evolutionary eye about 50 million years ago,” Mr. Brownstein said in an interview. “It was like whales going back into the ocean. It was amazing.”

The team found that, simultaneously, the fish developed their unusual reproductive skills. It was unable to determine which came first — temporary or permanent attachment.

Some female anglerfish can grow quite large, reaching more than three feet in length, but most are smaller. The free-swimming males typically are a few inches long.

How do they find the females in the perpetual darkness of the deep sea?

Mr. Brownstein said the males have enlarged nasal organs that are thought to let them follow faint trails of female pheromones through the darkness in order to find their partner.

“You sniff out your mate, literally,” he said.

William J. Broad has reported on science at The Times since 1983. He is based in New York. More about William J. Broad

Explore the Animal Kingdom

A selection of quirky, intriguing and surprising discoveries about animal life..

Scientists expect the large, brightly colored joro spider to arrive in the Northeast sometime this year. Here’s what to know about these spider invaders .

Wombats build extensive burrow networks  and don’t seem to mind when other woodland creatures use them as flameproof bunkers, offering a possible way for other animals to survive wildfires.

An analysis of elephant calls using an A.I. tool suggests that the animals may use and respond to individualized rumbles .

How did the ghoulish creatures known as anglerfish pull off the evolutionary feat that let them essentially take over the ocean’s sunless depths? It took extremely peculiar sex .

The Lord Howe Island stick insect vanished from its home, but an effort at zoos in San Diego and Melbourne highlights the possibilities and challenges  of conserving invertebrate animals.

Advertisement